Tears and wailing filled the air as Boko Haram suicide bombers attacked funeral and wedding ceremonies in Gwoza, Borno State, on Saturday, killing at least 20 people and injuring over 100 others. This devastating incident marks a resurgence of suicide bombing in the state, which had previously been a hotspot for Boko Haram attacks.
According to eyewitnesses and officials, the attacks occurred at various locations, including a wedding reception and a burial ceremony. The first suicide bomber, a female, detonated her explosive device at a wedding reception, killing herself and many others. Shortly after, another suicide bomber attacked a nearby burial ceremony, causing further casualties. A third explosion occurred later, resulting in additional injuries and fatalities.
Dr. Barkindo Saidu, Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), confirmed the attacks and provided details on the casualties. “So far, 18 deaths have been recorded, comprising children, adult males, females, and pregnant women. Nineteen people were seriously injured and were conveyed to Maiduguri in four ambulances; 23 are waiting for military escort in the Medical Regimental Services (MRS) Clinic.”
The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, also confirmed the attacks, stating that the entire Gwoza council area is in mourning. “At least 100 people were injured, and most of them who sustained serious injuries have been rushed to Maiduguri with military escort for proper medical attention.”
Reacting to the incidents, the member representing Gwoza/Chibok/Damboa Federal Constituency, Ahmed Usman Jaha, sympathized with the families of the victims and prayed for the souls of the deceased. An eyewitness, Musa, described the scene as chaotic, with people running for cover and bodies on the ground.
The state Commissioner of Police, Yusuf Lawal, confirmed the attack on the wedding ceremony, stating that at least six people were killed and 15 others were evacuated to the hospital.
In a related development, some internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Gwoza, who were relocated to Yola, Adamawa State capital, have pleaded not to be compelled to return to Gwoza, citing safety concerns. The leader of one of the camps, Jugule Hamed, stated that many settlements in Gwoza are still unsafe.
The multiple attacks have raised concerns about the resurgence of Boko Haram’s violent activities in the region, and the need for increased security measures to protect civilians.
