At least seven commuters were killed on Saturday in a deadly explosion along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road, following the detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by Boko Haram terrorists.
According to local sources, the IED exploded as vehicles in a military-escorted convoy were transporting passengers from Damboa to Maiduguri. Several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and have been rushed to a hospital in Maiduguri for treatment.
The Maiduguri-Damboa Road, which cuts through the notorious Sambisa Forest, has long been a hotspot for Boko Haram activity and was previously closed to civilian traffic for several years due to repeated insurgent attacks.
Military Convoys and Security Protocol
Under the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum, the road was reopened, allowing civilian movement under strict military escort. These convoys typically operate twice a week, with routes being scanned for explosives prior to departure.
Despite these security measures, Saturday’s attack highlights the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram in the region and the challenges in maintaining safe passage for residents of Southern Borno, including Damboa, Chibok, and other local government areas.
Ongoing Insecurity
The number of injured victims has not yet been confirmed, but authorities say emergency response efforts are underway. This latest attack underscores the enduring risks faced by civilians in northeastern Nigeria, where Boko Haram continues to launch deadly assaults on infrastructure and transport routes.
Security forces are expected to conduct further investigations and a sweep of the surrounding area in the aftermath of the incident.
