23 Dead, 108 Injured in Maiduguri Blasts as Witnesses Cite Higher Toll; Security Chiefs Deployed

Fresh details have emerged from Monday night’s explosions in Maiduguri, with survivors describing scenes of panic and destruction, while President Bola Tinubu ordered security chiefs to relocate to Borno State.

Police confirmed 23 deaths and 108 injuries, though eyewitnesses estimated that more than 40 people may have died.

Calls for urgent government action came from Northern governors and Senator Ali Ndume, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar warned of declining public trust amid a resurgence of terrorism. The ADC also criticised Tinubu’s visit to the United Kingdom during the crisis.

Eyewitness accounts

Abacha Mustapha, a trader injured in the blast, said:

“We broke our fast… when the first bomb detonated… suddenly my neck started bleeding.”

He added:

“It was chaotic… People were running in different directions.”

Another victim, Mohammed Jubril, described losing his hearing:

“The blast deafened me immediately… As I speak with you, I cannot hear anything.”

Hauwa Sanusi said her sister remains missing:

“We have visited some hospitals and couldn’t find her… We are in pain, please help us.”

An injured father of five said:

“I am a bit worried over who will put food on the table for the children.”

Medical situation

Victims continue to receive treatment across hospitals, with urgent calls for blood donations.

Professor Ahmed Ahijo of UMTH confirmed:

25 deaths and over 70 patients responding to treatment.

Police and army statements

Police said the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers at three locations and confirmed:

“Twenty three (23) persons lost their lives, while one hundred and eight (108) others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”

The Nigerian Army warned of further threats, stating:

“The explosions were carried out by suspected Boko Haram terrorist suicide bombers… targeting crowded public areas.”

It added:

“The terrorists may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri.”

Presidential directive

Condemning the attack, Tinubu said:

“The recent news… is profoundly upsetting… Nigeria will not succumb to fear.”

He confirmed that security chiefs had been directed to relocate to Maiduguri.

Reactions

Northern governors said:

“This senseless act of violence… is an attack on our collective humanity.”

Senator Ndume described the incident as:

“Deeply heartbreaking.”

Atiku Abubakar warned:

“The resurgence of terrorism is capable of eroding public confidence…”

The ADC criticised the President, stating:

“The protection of lives and property must take precedence…”

Africans Angle News