Panic In Maiduguri As Suspected Terrorists Attack Dala, Ajilari Areas

Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, were thrown into panic in the early hours of Monday following a suspected terrorist attack in parts of the city.

The incident reportedly occurred around Dala, Bulamari and Ajilari Cross areas.

Residents said the attackers began shooting sporadically at about 12:35 a.m., triggering fear among residents and prompting security agencies to respond.

Some residents who spoke with Punch also reported hearing loud explosions during the attack.

The spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the development, saying security operatives had been deployed to the scene.

“Yes, there is a suspected terrorist attack at Ajilari Cross. I am currently on my way to the scene. I will give you details later,” Daso said.

Military and police reinforcements were said to have moved swiftly to the affected areas to contain the situation.

One of the residents, Abdulamalik Aminu, who lives near the Pompommari Bypass, said the sound of gunfire forced many residents to leave their homes.

“From my area, we heard it loudly. All of us are outside now. Some people are trying to leave their homes. Boko Haram members are exchanging gunfire with security personnel, but for now, the situation has calmed down,” he said.

Punch gathered that military helicopters were seen flying over Maiduguri and surrounding areas during the incident.

“Helicopters are currently flying around,” another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.