Maiduguri, Borno State – At least 23 people have been killed and more than 100 injured after a series of coordinated explosions hit Maiduguri on Monday evening, March 16, authorities said. The blasts, suspected to have been carried out by Boko Haram/ISWAP operatives, struck multiple locations across the city, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the Monday Market.
Police confirmed that the attacks occurred almost simultaneously, causing widespread panic. Kenneth Daso, Police Public Relations Officer, said the full extent of casualties remains unclear as rescue operations are ongoing. Security teams, including the police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, have been deployed to the affected areas to manage the aftermath.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, condemned the attacks, describing them as “barbaric and inhumane.” Through his media aide, he expressed condolences to the families of victims and urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in public and religious spaces, as security agencies continue efforts to prevent further incidents.
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso also expressed deep concern over the attacks, warning that the incidents signal a troubling resurgence of terrorism in the region. “These latest attacks, following other recent incidents in Borno, threaten the peace our communities have struggled to rebuild,” Kwankwaso said. He called for intensified military action and support for security forces to combat insurgent activities.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid affected areas and stay indoors while rescue and stabilization operations continue. Emergency contact lines have been made available for those seeking information, with official casualty updates expected after ongoing assessments.
In a separate development, no fewer than three soldiers and seven vigilante operatives were reportedly killed in an attack by bandits in Wanka community, Keram district, Plateau State, on March 13. Residents said gunmen invaded the village, sparking a violent exchange with local security forces.
