GOVERNOR of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has raised fresh alarm over security in the state, revealing that two suicide bombers are still at large following the deadly attacks that rocked Maiduguri earlier this week.
News Point Nigeria reports that the governor disclosed that intelligence reports confirmed that five suicide bombers infiltrated the state capital, but only three had detonated their improvised explosive devices (IEDs), leaving two others yet to carry out attacks.
Zulum made the revelation in an exclusive interview with BBC News Pidgin on Friday, as he reacted to the coordinated explosions that struck multiple locations across Maiduguri on Monday evening.
The attacks, which occurred at the peak of Ramadan as Muslim faithful prepared to break their fast, left at least 23 people dead and about 100 others injured, throwing the city into panic and grief.
According to the Nigerian Army, the explosions targeted the Post Office area, the busy Monday Market axis, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Security agencies have blamed the attacks on insurgents linked to Boko Haram, a group that has waged a prolonged insurgency in the North-East region.
Speaking on the development, Zulum said security operatives had intensified efforts to track down the remaining attackers and prevent further tragedy.
“We’ve got solid intelligence that five suicide bombers made it into Maiduguri,” the governor said. “Three have already detonated their devices.
“We’re tracking the remaining two right now. I won’t say more than that, but we’re on it. By God’s grace, we’ll stop those last two before they can strike.”
The disclosure has heightened tension across the city, as residents grapple with the aftermath of the blasts while facing the possibility of additional attacks.
Zulum, who was in Saudi Arabia for the lesser hajj when the incident occurred, described the development as deeply distressing.
“As the governor and chief security officer of Borno, it hit me hard,” he said. “My prayers are with the victims and their families. I just want to reassure the people of Maiduguri and the whole state that this madness will end.”
Upon his return, the governor immediately convened a series of high-level security meetings involving the military and other intelligence agencies, aimed at tightening surveillance and preventing further breaches.
Sources within the state government said security presence has since been reinforced across critical locations, with patrols intensified and checkpoints strengthened.
For residents of Maiduguri, the fear remains palpable, as authorities race against time to locate the remaining suspects and avert another tragedy.
Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements, as the state continues its efforts to restore calm and ensure the safety of lives and property.