Governor Babagana Zulum has revealed that two suspected suicide bombers are still at large after a series of explosions in Maiduguri, heightening security concerns in the area.
In an interview with BBC Pidgin, he said intelligence reports suggest that five attackers entered the city. Three have already detonated improvised explosive devices, while efforts continue to track down the remaining two.
The blasts left more than 100 people injured and at least 23 dead, triggering increased security alerts across Maiduguri. Authorities believe the coordinated attacks signal a resurgence of insurgent activity.
Zulum stated that security agencies have stepped up surveillance and are actively pursuing the suspects. He urged residents to stay alert and avoid crowded places, especially during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, assuring that the situation is under control and the remaining attackers will be found.
He linked the infiltration to ongoing military operations in Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad region, explaining that insurgents often move into civilian areas to escape pressure from security forces.
The governor also noted that Maiduguri’s large and growing population—estimated at between three and four million—makes it difficult to thoroughly screen those entering the city.
Despite the incident, Zulum maintained that overall security has improved compared to previous years and said additional measures have been introduced to prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has ordered security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri in response, while the African Union has called for stronger international support to help Nigeria tackle the insurgency.
