Manny Ita –
Multiple explosions tore through parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, late Monday evening, triggering panic among residents and stretching emergency response services to their limits. The blasts, which occurred in quick succession, were reported around the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the Post Office area, two densely populated locations within the city.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and confusion as the explosions sent shockwaves across surrounding neighborhoods, with many residents fleeing their homes in fear. “We heard a loud bang, then another one shortly after. People started running in all directions,” a resident said, adding that the situation quickly became “terrifying and uncontrollable.”
Emergency responders, including security agencies and medical personnel, were swiftly deployed to the affected areas, where they began evacuating victims and securing the vicinity. Officials at the scene confirmed that casualties had been recorded, although the exact number remains unclear as rescue operations continue. “We are currently attending to the injured and assessing the full scale of the damage,” an emergency official stated.
The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, one of the locations near the blast sites, has reportedly received a surge of injured persons, with medical staff working under pressure to stabilize victims. “We are doing everything possible to save lives,” a hospital source said, noting that additional medical supplies and personnel may be required.
Security operatives have cordoned off the affected areas as investigations commence into the cause of the explosions. While no group has claimed responsibility as of the time of filing this report, authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant. “We advise members of the public to stay away from the affected zones and report any suspicious activity,” a security spokesperson said.
The incident marks a grim reminder of the security challenges that have persisted in parts of northeastern Nigeria, even as efforts continue to restore normalcy. Residents, still reeling from the shock, expressed concern over the resurgence of such attacks, with one local saying, “We thought those days were behind us, but tonight has shown otherwise.”
As emergency teams continue their work into the night, authorities say further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
