Lead 2
March 17, New Delhi — Coordinated attacks carried out by suspected suicide bombers struck the city of Maiduguri in Nigeria, killing at least 23 people and injuring 108.
The explosions occurred in crowded areas, including a market, a hospital entrance, and a post office, shortly after people broke their fast during Ramadan. Hospitals were overwhelmed with the injured, and several bodies were seen outside medical facilities.
The Nigerian military blamed the attacks on suspected Boko Haram militants and warned of increased suicide attack threats towards the end of Ramadan. The incident follows recent attacks in the region and highlights the continued presence of both Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
Despite relative calm in recent years, Maiduguri remains vulnerable due to its proximity to insurgent strongholds like the Sambisa Forest. Governor Babagana Zulum termed the attacks 'barbaric,' while President Bola Tinubu ordered security forces to take control of the situation.