In a tragic turn of events, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has expressed profound sorrow and sympathy following a devastating bomb blast along the Maiduguri–Damboa highway. The incident, suspected to be the work of Boko Haram insurgents, involved an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and resulted in the loss of eight lives and injuries to 21 others on Saturday. The targeted vehicles were civilian, traveling on a route that has seen relative calm in recent times.

Governor Zulum visited the injured victims at the State Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri, where he lamented the resurgence of such attacks. According to sources, fourteen of the injured sustained severe injuries, while seven others were treated for minor wounds. The governor described the event as regrettable, particularly noting that Borno had not experienced an IED attack in over a year. He also mentioned that the road had been closed for a month, further emphasizing the unexpected nature of the attack.

“It is unfortunate this is happening now. We haven’t witnessed an IED attack for over a year,” Zulum stated, conveying his grief over the loss of life and extending condolences to the bereaved families. He has called upon the Nigerian military and other security agencies to enhance surveillance along the highway to prevent further attacks. Additionally, he pledged to bolster local security systems, including providing support to the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and youth volunteers actively involved in counter-insurgency operations.

The blast occurred at approximately 11:30 am near Gidan Kaji (Poultry House) in the Konduga Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State. The location, which has been deserted for over a decade due to the Boko Haram crisis, saw a convoy of private and commercial vehicles, escorted by troops, become the target of the IED.

In related developments, a former Borno State Commissioner of Trade, Commerce and Industry, Hon. Yerima Lawan Kareto, has criticized the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who claimed that Borno is safe. Kareto’s criticism comes in the wake of reports suggesting that security agencies are struggling to contain renewed terrorist attacks. Kareto extended an invitation to Minister Idris to visit Borno, specifically Damasak, offering to personally drive him through the region to witness the reality of the security situation firsthand.

District Head of Damboa, Lawan Maina, confirmed the incident, stating that all injured individuals have been evacuated to the State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri, while the remains of the deceased are being identified. “It is very sad to inform you about the explosion that took place along Damboa-Maiduguri road this morning,” Maina said, appealing to the federal government and security agencies to increase their efforts in supporting the Borno State Government’s counter-terrorism initiatives.

Governor Zulum's visit to the State Specialist Hospital included directives for free treatment for all the injured. Meanwhile, Hon. Kareto challenged Minister Idris to visit Damasak, a border town with Niger Republic, to gain a clear understanding of the security challenges plaguing the region.

Zulum also expressed optimism regarding the outcome of a recent meeting with military chiefs in Abuja, where the resurgence of Boko Haram activities in Borno was a key point of discussion. “Our discussions during the security council were positive. We highlighted the resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and stressed the need for cooperation,” Zulum noted, adding that he received assurances from the service chiefs that they would do everything possible to manage the situation.