Suicide bombers strike three locations simultaneously as security forces launch sweep operations across affected areas

Following bomb explosions that simultaneously rocked three locations in Maiduguri, Borno State, twenty-three persons have been confirmed dead while 108 sustained varying degrees of injuries.

The incident occurred on Monday at the Post Office Flyover area, Maiduguri Monday Market, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate.

Confirming the incident, the spokesman for the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, said investigation was still ongoing to further ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

"Following the devastating suspected suicide IED explosions that occurred at about 7:24pm on March 16, 2026, at Maiduguri Monday Market, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and Post Office Flyover area, Maiduguri.

"Preliminary investigation reveals that the incident was carried out by suspected suicide bombers, and 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries," the statement read.

He noted that a combined team of police tactical units, the military, and other security operatives was deployed to the affected areas in response to the incidents.

The scenes were secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit Base 13, Maiduguri, to rule out the presence of any additional threats.

The state Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmaji, also visited the affected locations to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and evaluate the ongoing response efforts.

The commissioner commiserated with victims and their families, and assured the public of the command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Victims were swiftly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency, to medical facilities where they are receiving treatment.