ZULUM CONDEMNS BORNO EXPLOSIONS DURING RAMADAN

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By ‘Sefiu Ajape

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has condemned the explosions that occurred in parts of Maiduguri on Monday evening.

Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel and cowardly, noting that it targeted innocent people during the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor called for increased vigilance and stronger security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the Eid period approaches.

“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,” Zulum said.

He added, “The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents.”

The governor assured residents that the military and other security agencies were on top of the situation, adding that adequate measures had been taken to prevent any security breach in Maiduguri and across the state.

He urged residents to remain calm, continue their normal activities and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.

Earlier, HOTJIST reported that an unspecified number of persons were killed and several others injured following explosions around Monday Market and at the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Sources said the explosions occurred almost simultaneously at about 7:02 p.m.

Confirming the incident, the Head of Operations of the Federal Fire Service in Borno State, Mohammed Kafaran, said the agency had deployed personnel to the scene.

“Yes, there was a bomb explosion at Monday Market area around Elkenemi. We have deployed a team there to take reports. We will get back to you shortly,” he said.

Eyewitnesses told HOTJIST that many of the injured victims had been evacuated to hospitals.

“There were dead bodies on the ground. Many persons with wounds have been rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri,” one witness said.

The Borno State Police Command also confirmed the attack and urged residents to remain vigilant.

The command’s spokesman, Nahum Daso, said in a statement, “Following reports of a suspected explosion at Maiduguri Monday Market and UMTH gate at about 7:20pm, joint security operatives and emergency responders have been deployed. Police EOD Unit, Base 13 Maiduguri, is on ground.

“Residents are advised to remain calm and avoid the area while assessments continue. Further updates shortly,” Daso said.