Tragedy in Borno: Massive Explosion Leaves 7 Dead, Several Fighting for Their Lives

At least seven people have lost their lives in a deadly explosion along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road, a known volatile route in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria.

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), allegedly planted by Boko Haram insurgents, detonated on the deteriorated and sparsely used road that cuts through the infamous Sambisa Forest — a former stronghold of the terrorist group.

According to reports, the explosion struck as vehicles in a scheduled military-escorted convoy were transporting passengers from Damboa to Maiduguri. The blast killed no fewer than seven commuters on the spot, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

The Maiduguri-Damboa Road, which serves as a critical link between the Borno State capital and several local government areas in the southern part of the state, has remained a hotspot for Boko Haram activities for more than a decade. The route was previously closed to civilian traffic due to persistent security threats.

However, under the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum, the road was reopened to allow movement between Maiduguri and key towns such as Damboa and Chibok. This reopening was made possible through the deployment of military convoys that escort vehicles along the dangerous stretch. These convoys operate twice weekly, preceded by military personnel scanning the route for hidden explosives — a routine that has been in place for over two years.

Despite these precautions, Saturday’s attack underscores the persistent threat posed by insurgents who continue to target both civilians and security forces.

Authorities have yet to provide an exact count of the injured, but the wounded have been evacuated to a hospital in Maiduguri, where they are receiving urgent medical care.

Details shortly…