Borno State, Nigeria – At least seven commuters lost their lives on Saturday following a deadly explosion along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road in Borno State. The blast was reportedly caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by Boko Haram insurgents along the dilapidated and sparsely traveled route that cuts through the notorious Sambisa Forest.
The victims were part of a scheduled, military-escorted convoy transporting civilians from Damboa to Maiduguri when the explosion occurred. Several other passengers sustained injuries of varying severity and have been evacuated to a medical facility in Maiduguri for urgent treatment.
The Maiduguri-Damboa Road is a strategic route connecting Maiduguri, the state capital, to several local government areas in Southern Borno. It has been a high-risk corridor due to persistent attacks by Boko Haram militants over the past decade.
Previously closed to public travel, the road was reopened during the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum, who implemented regular military escorts to ensure safer passage for commuters. The escort operation, which involves thorough IED sweeps and runs twice weekly, has been in place for over two years.
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This incident underscores the growing insecurity across Nigeria, where terror groups, bandits, and armed militias continue to pose significant threats to the safety of lives and property, particularly in the northern regions
Security forces are expected to intensify surveillance and preventive measures in the wake of this latest incident, as efforts continue to restore peace and stability in the region.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
