From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri
Multiple bomb blasts from suspected suicide bombers have killed no fewer than 18 people in Borno’s restive town.
A female bomber targeting a funeral ceremony in Gwoza, located southeast of Maiduguri, the capital on Saturday evening, detonated explosives which caused severe blasts and affected about 30 people.
Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Dr Barkindo Saudu, who confirmed the incident via a phone message late Saturday, said more explosions occurred near the General Hospital and another near the place where a marriage ceremony was held.
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“So far, 18 deaths comprise children, adult males, females, and pregnant women,” Saidu disclosed.
He said the 19 seriously injured persons have been converted to Maiduguri for treatment while 23 others will be moved later.
The SEMA head said he was in Gwoza to personally coordinate the emergency situation and ensure prompt response to victims.
It was the first suicide bomb attack in the state this year after months of respite. Gwoza, one of Borno’s major towns, is about 129 kilometres from Maiduguri.
