Panic In Borno Over Another Possible Attack By Suicide Bombers

By Ayodele Oni

As Muslims celebrate end of Ramadan, palpable fear has gripped people of Borno State following revelation that suicide bombers are planning another attack on the state capital.

The State Government has, therefore, called on residents to stay alert during Friday’s Eid prayers in Maiduguri, following intelligence reports suggesting that two suspected suicide bombers may be planning attacks.

Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Damaturu, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum disclosed the warning, stating: “We have intelligence that there are two suicide bombers lurking around to carry out attacks, and we are calling on all our people to remain vigilant.”

The governor further stated that although Boko Haram insurgents are currently facing sustained military pressure, they may attempt to stage attacks on Maiduguri as a diversion.

He, however, expressed confidence that such efforts would not succeed.

Governor Zulum just arrived from Saudi Arabia where he had gone to perform the lesser hajj, promoting his absence during Monday’s suicide attacks at three locations in Maiduguri, including the gate of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, a city roundabout, and the Post Office.

The incidents reportedly claimed over 20 lives and left more than 100 others injured.

Earlier on Friday, Governor Zulum visited victims of the bomb blasts in Maiduguri following his return from the lesser Hajj.

During the visit, he praised the Federal Government for its prompt actions, including releasing funds for clearance operations around the fringes of Lake Chad and other affected areas.

He also acknowledged the directive ordering Service Chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to reinforce ongoing security efforts.

The governor reassured residents of continued government support for victims and the families of those who lost their lives.

He further reiterated the commitment of security agencies to ending insurgency in the state and across the North-East region.

While in Saudi Arabia, Governor Zulum had earlier issued a statement through his spokesperson condemning the attack as cowardly and barbaric.

Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto has challenged the military to adopt a more aggressive approach against terrorists following recent bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Sultan made the call while declaring Friday’s Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

Abubakar condemned the attacks and urged the military and intelligence agencies to intensify efforts in tackling terrorism.

“Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Don’t wait for them to strike before defending or finding remedies.

“This you must do so that, as a nation of great people, we can have peace in our country.

“We condemn this new wave of bomb attacks in the strongest terms of condemnation and charge that the military and other security and intelligence agencies should step up their effort by nipping these terrorism and insurgency problems in the bud.”