Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abuja, Nigeria — Former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has condemned a series of coordinated bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attacks as a troubling resurgence of senseless terrorism that threatens the fragile peace in northeastern Nigeria. His comments follow one of the deadliest blasts in the city in recent years, which left scores dead and many more injured.
The explosions occurred on the evening of Monday, March 16, 2026, when improvised explosive devices detonated in three crowded locations in Maiduguri: the Post Office area, Monday Market, and near the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Security officials confirmed that at least 23 people were killed and 108 others suffered injuries of varying severity as a result of the blasts.
Kwankwaso, a former Minister of Defence and leader of the New Nigerian People’s Party, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives. In his statement, he said he was deeply saddened by the horrific multiple suicide bombings in Maiduguri and warned that these incidents, similar to other recent attacks in the state, indicate a disturbing uptick in terrorism after periods of relative calm.
He described the attacks as senseless acts that threaten the peace and security efforts that communities in Borno and the broader northeast have struggled to rebuild following years of insurgency. Kwankwaso’s remarks underscored the emotional toll on families and communities dealing with loss, injury, and disruption. He urged both federal and state governments to take urgent action to strengthen security measures, support the armed forces, and ensure that terrorist networks are decisively confronted and dismantled.
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the death and injury figures, saying the explosions occurred around 7:24 p.m. and are believed to have been carried out by suspected suicide bombers using improvised explosive devices, though no group has publicly claimed responsibility. Security forces have since reinforced their presence in Maiduguri and urged residents to remain vigilant.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum also condemned the attacks, calling them barbaric and inhumane and appealing to citizens to support security agencies as they respond to the situation.
Experts say the attacks could be linked to longstanding insurgent groups in the region, such as Boko Haram or its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province, both of which have a history of orchestrating coordinated bombings and other violence in urban and rural areas of Borno State. The northeast has endured over a decade of insurgency, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacement of millions of residents.
In response to the explosion, security forces operating under Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign have increased surveillance and patrols across Maiduguri to prevent further attacks. Authorities have also called for public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities and have encouraged blood donations and support for the many injured victims being treated in hospitals.
Kwankwaso’s call for heightened action comes amid broader national and regional concerns about terrorism and its impact on civilian life. Civil society organisations, northern governors’ groups and community leaders have also condemned the bombings and urged government to redouble efforts to protect communities, enhance intelligence operations, and support long-term recovery and resilience in affected areas.
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