Gov Zulum Warns of Suicide Bomb Threats in Maiduguri Amid Eid Celebrations
The Borno State Government has urged residents to remain vigilant during today’s Eid prayers in Maiduguri following intelligence indicating that two suspected suicide bombers may be planning attacks.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Damaturu, said, “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 noted that although Boko Haram insurgents are under sustained military pressure, they may attempt to target Maiduguri as a diversion.
He, however, expressed confidence that such attacks would fail.
This marks Governor Zulum’s first public statement since Monday’s suicide attacks in Maiduguri, which occurred at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, a city roundabout, and the Post Office.
The attacks reportedly claimed over 20 lives and left more than 100 injured.
On Friday, Zulum visited victims of the blasts after returning from the lesser Hajj.
He praised the Federal Government for promptly releasing funds for clearance operations around Lake Chad and other affected areas and welcomed the directive for Service Chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to strengthen security.
The governor reassured residents of government support for victims and their families and reiterated the commitment of security agencies to ending insurgency in Borno State and the wider North-East region.
While in Saudi Arabia, Zulum condemned the attacks as “despicable, cruel, and cowardly,” highlighting that they targeted innocent people during the holy month of Ramadan.
His Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, called on residents to maintain vigilance and for heightened security in places of worship during the Eid celebrations.
The governor assured that military and security agencies are fully in control, with adequate measures in place to prevent breaches in Maiduguri and across Borno State.
He urged citizens to remain calm, continue daily activities, and report suspicious movements or incidents to authorities.
Monday’s explosions reportedly occurred near Monday Market and the gate of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital at around 7:00 p.m. simultaneously.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
