By Sam Kayode
Sequel to the late Monday evening attacks launched by terrorists believed to be Boko Haram at the Monday Market and at the front of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) a number of people were killed and several others injured.
The explosion which took place after Muslim faithfuls had broken their fast, kept hundreds of commuters scampering for safety knowing fully well that it’s been a long time these occurrences reverberated through the Borno State Capital.
Eye witnesses said that the first improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated around the Elkanemi round about area of the Monday Market very close to some commercial banks.
The second ied was said to have occurred at around the security gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).
“The carrier of the IED was said to have sneaked though the small gate meant for visitors who do come to visit their loved ones.” Said a source in the hospital.
The explosion gave rise to a lot of casualties which they were still treating at the UMTH trauma centre as at the time of writing this report.
The third explosion was said to have occurred at the post office area but nothing was heard as at the time of writing this report.
Meanwhile Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has condemned in the strongest terms the explosion that occurred in some parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.
Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, targeting innocent people in the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement, by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, the Governor called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the festive period beckons.
“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane.
“The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents. “Said Zulum.
The Governor, therefore, assured residents of the state that the military and other security agencies were on top of the situation, as adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach in Maiduguri and the entire state.
He called on residents to remain calm, even as they go about their usual activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.
