The Borno State Police Command has reported that 23 people died and 108 others were injured following a series of explosive attacks that struck Maiduguri, which authorities have identified as coordinated suicide bombings.
The tragic events unfolded around 7:24 p.m. on March 16, 2026, targeting busy locations throughout the city, including Maiduguri Monday Market, the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover area.
In a statement released by the police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, initial investigations indicated that the explosions were executed by suspected suicide bombers utilizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In response to the crisis, a joint team comprising Police Tactical Units, military personnel, and other security operatives were rapidly deployed to the affected areas.
The sites were promptly secured and cordoned off, while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit undertook thorough operations to ensure that no further explosive materials remained at the scene.
Emergency services, including teams from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), coordinated with medical teams to transport victims to hospitals for treatment.
A statement regarding the incidents clarified: “Following the devastating suspected suicide IED explosions that occurred at around 1924 hours on March 16, 2026, at (1.) Maiduguri Monday Market, (2.) University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) gate, and (3.) The Post Office Flyover area in Maiduguri, preliminary investigations reveal that these incidents were perpetrated by suspected suicide bombers.
Unfortunately, a total of 23 individuals lost their lives, while 108 sustained various degrees of injuries. In the aftermath, a combined team of Police Tactical Units, military forces, and other joint security operatives were swiftly sent to the locations.
The scenes were quickly secured, cordoned off, and subjected to meticulous sweep operations by the Police EOD Unit to eliminate any additional dangers.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, conducted a site visit to assess the situation and ongoing response efforts. He expressed his condolences to the victims and their families and assured the community of the police's dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
Victims were efficiently evacuated by emergency responders, who transported them to healthcare facilities where they are currently being treated. The Borno State Police Command confirmed that normalcy has since been reinstated in the affected areas.
Additionally, security forces have increased their presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and surrounding areas to avert any further incidents. Investigations are currently ongoing to uncover more details about the incidents and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Borno State Police Command urged the public to remain calm and vigilant while promptly reporting any unusual activities or objects to nearby security agencies. Emergency contact numbers are available for public reporting:
08068075581, 08023473293.
The Command appreciates the resilience and cooperation of the residents and reiterates its commitment to maintaining peace and security within the state.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!