Borno State Government Imposes 24-Hour Curfew After Market Bomb Attack

On August 1, 2024, the Borno State Government implemented an immediate 24-hour curfew throughout the state. This drastic measure follows a tragic bomb attack that rocked Kawori Market in the Konduga area on Wednesday night. The explosion, suspected to be carried out by a Boko Haram suicide bomber, resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals and left several others critically injured.

In a press release obtained by Opitangloba Media, Police Public Relations Officer ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso confirmed the incident. The statement, titled “Imposition of Curfew,” detailed how the bomb explosion prompted Governor Babagana Zulum Of Borno State to consult with top security officials before deciding on this stringent measure. The curfew aims to restore law and order and ensure the safety of the public.

Government’s Response to the Crisis

Governor Babagana Zulum, in collaboration with security heads, found it necessary to declare the 24-hour curfew immediately. The curfew is part of the government’s effort to prevent further violence and maintain peace in the Borno state. According to ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the decision aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s constitutional mandate to preserve law and order.

The press release highlighted the severity of the attack and the urgency of the situation. It stated, “In view of the constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security and law enforcement agencies toward the preservation of law and order in the state. You are all aware of the incident that took place at Kawori, which was the detonation of an improvised explosive device ordinance device, which led to the death of 16 persons while several others were critically injured and on admission across various government hospitals in the state.”

Call for Public Cooperation

The Borno State Government has urged residents to remain calm and comply with the curfew. ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso emphasized the importance of public cooperation in these trying times. The press release concluded with a plea for calm and law-abiding behavior from the citizens, promising that further updates would be provided as the situation develops.

“I, therefore, wish to call upon the good people of Borno State to remain calm and law-abiding. Further developments will be communicated to you accordingly, please,” the statement read.

The imposition of the curfew reflects the government’s determination to protect its citizens and restore normalcy in the wake of the devastating attack. The authorities remain vigilant and are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the residents.

Bombing Kills at Least 19 in Nigeria’s Borno State

A bomb exploded in a popular tea house in Kawuri village, Borno state, killing at least 19 people and injuring over 20 others. The explosion occurred around 8 PM local time, shaking the small community located about 50 kilometers from Maiduguri, the state capital. Victims were rushed to Maiduguri for medical treatment, highlighting the severe impact of the attack on local healthcare resources.

Security and government officials confirmed that the bomb was planted, ruling out a suicide attack. No group has claimed responsibility for this assault, but both Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operate actively in the region. This incident marks the second major attack in recent weeks, raising concerns about escalating violence in Borno.

Increased Security Measures and Background of the Insurgency

In response to the bombing, Nigerian authorities are considering implementing movement restrictions, vehicle checks, and curfews on short notice. These measures aim to prevent further attacks and restore a sense of security among residents. The recent bombing follows a series of coordinated attacks by suspected female suicide bombers that killed 32 people in the Gwoza area of Borno state, targeting a wedding, hospital, and funeral.

Borno has been the epicenter of a 15-year Islamist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions. Despite efforts by the Nigerian military to degrade the militants’ capabilities, both Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to carry out deadly attacks on civilians and security forces. The persistence of these attacks underscores the ongoing challenge of combating insurgency and maintaining stability in the region.