…VP Shettima condemns incident
From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri, Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
An explosion by a female suicide bomber has reportedly killed 12 people in Borno’s central town of Konduga.
Residents said the bomber sneaked into the midst of dozens of fruits, vegetables, roasted meat (suya) sellers, and other consumables at a local trading area along the major road which passes through the town to neighbouring Bama town.
The incident occurred on Friday morning but was not immediately known in Maiduguri, the state capital, until yesterday. Konduga is about 47 kilometres from Maiduguri.
“There were many people around the area, including traders and those seated on benches, chatting,” Tujja Modu, a resident, told Sunday Sun. Security forces immediately cordoned off the road to ensure the safety and evacuation of the victims and wounded persons.
Some military troops from the Joint Task Force Northeast were seen at the scene yesterday morning monitoring the situation. Sunday Sun learnt that some of the injured persons in the hospitals were responding to treatment. The bomb explosion underscores recent security concerns in a state struggling to overcome over a decade of terrorist attacks.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the suicide incident. According to a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the VP described the attack as a “heinous act of terrorism against innocent civilians, calling for urgent investigations and support for the victims’ families.
Speaking yesterday, he reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to bring the perpetrators to justice. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Borno State. He said: “The Federal Government will not relent in our efforts to ensure that those responsible for this despicable act face the full weight of the law.
“Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence. The government stands with them in this difficult time and will provide all necessary support.
“The administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remains committed to restoring lasting peace and security to the Northeast and all parts of Nigeria. We will not allow our enemies to undermine the progress we have made in degrading their capabilities.”
The Vice President urged relevant agencies to expedite investigations and ensure urgent assistance for victims and their families, reaffirming the government’s resolve to maintain security and stability in the region.