AT least two people have been killed in a suspected terrorist attack involving an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Lumma-Babanna road in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
News Point Nigeria incident, which occurred around 2pm on Sunday, claimed the life of a yet-to-be-identified driver transporting yams, as well as a motorcyclist who was reportedly shot dead moments after the explosion.
According to authorities, the driver was navigating an alternative route when his vehicle struck the planted IED, triggering a fatal explosion.
The road has become a key passage for motorists following the destruction of the main bridge linking Lumma-Babanna to the Benin Republic.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers not only planted the explosive device but also opened fire in the area.
He disclosed that a motorcyclist was shot and killed at the same location shortly after the blast, suggesting a coordinated attack aimed at targeting road users.
The latest incident comes weeks after the bombing of the Lumma-Babanna–New Bussa Bridge on March 23, a critical infrastructure linking surrounding communities to Agwara and facilitating cross-border movement.
Security officials have attributed the destruction of the bridge to suspected terrorists believed to be operating from the nearby Kainji National Park.
Authorities say the attackers are exploiting the vast and difficult terrain of the park as a base for operations, using it to evade security forces while launching attacks on nearby communities and infrastructure.
Residents have raised concerns over the growing insecurity in the area, noting that the destruction of the bridge and continued attacks have significantly disrupted economic activities.
The Lumma-Babanna corridor serves as a vital link between local communities and neighbouring Benin Republic, facilitating trade and daily movement.
With the main bridge destroyed and alternative routes now under threat, commercial activities have been severely affected, leaving traders and commuters increasingly vulnerable.
The use of improvised explosive devices marks a worrying escalation in tactics by armed groups in the region, raising fears of further attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.