Governor Zulum Warns of Two Unexploded Suicide Bombers in Maiduguri

Governor Babagana Zulum has confirmed that two individuals suspected of being suicide bombers are still at large following a series of explosions in Maiduguri, stirring fresh security worries in the region.

During an interview with BBC Pidgin, the governor indicated that intelligence assessments have shown that five attackers entered the city. Of these, three have already set off their improvised explosive devices (IEDs), while efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining two.

"The intelligence data we have so far suggests that there were five suicide bombers in Maiduguri. Thus far, three have activated their IEDs, and we are still trying to establish the location of the other two," he stated.

The incidents have resulted in more than 100 injuries and at least 23 fatalities, prompting heightened security measures throughout the city. Officials suspect that the coordinated explosions reflect renewed insurgent activities.

Zulum noted that security operatives have enhanced monitoring and are actively seeking the suspects, encouraging citizens to stay alert and steer clear of crowded locations, especially during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. "We are managing the situation and will apprehend those who have not yet detonated their explosives," he assured.

He linked the infiltration of attackers to ongoing military actions in Sambisa Forest and near Lake Chad, explaining that insurgents often scatter into civilian regions to escape military confrontations.

The governor also underscored the difficulties posed by the rising population of Maiduguri, now estimated between three and four million, which hinders efficient screening of individuals entering the city.

Despite these attacks, Zulum asserted that security has seen an improvement compared to earlier years and promised that additional precautions have been implemented to thwart further occurrences.

Simultaneously, President Bola Tinubu has instructed security leaders to move to Maiduguri in light of the current situation, while the African Union has urged for greater international assistance to support Nigeria in combatting the ongoing insurgency.