On Saturday, tragedy struck Gwoza, Borno State, as four suicide bombers unleashed devastating attacks that claimed the lives of eighteen people and injured over 30 others, according to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
Barkindo Saidu, the Director-General of SEMA, recounted the horrific events, stating that he personally witnessed the first explosion around 3 pm. The initial blast occurred during a marriage ceremony celebration at Tashan Mararaba near the Fire Service in Gwoza town, where a female suicide bomber, carrying a baby on her back, detonated an improvised explosive device (IED). The explosion resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities among the attendees.
Shortly thereafter, chaos ensued as another blast occurred near the General Hospital, exacerbating the casualties. As mourners gathered to bury the deceased from the wedding, a third female bomber struck, causing further devastation.
Saidu reported that a fourth explosion, caused by a female teenager, added to the tragic toll. The victims included children, adult males, females, and pregnant women. Nineteen severely injured individuals were transported to Maiduguri in four ambulances, while 23 others awaited military escort at the Medical Regimental Services (MRS) Clinic.
Emergency responders, including Saidu himself who remained on-site in Gwoza, coordinated the evacuation efforts throughout the night. Additionally, Saidu mentioned receiving reports of a suspected suicide bomber in Pulka, though details were not immediately disclosed.
In response to the attacks, military authorities imposed a curfew in Gwoza Local Government Area to enhance security and prevent further incidents. The community and emergency services continue to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, striving to provide aid and support to those affected by the bombings.
