The House of Representatives on Tuesday claimed that the female suicide bombers responsible for the recent killings in Borno State were imported from outside the region. This assertion was made following a motion of urgent national importance by lawmaker Ahmed Jaha.
Jaha condemned the attack, revealing that investigations indicated the bombers were “recruited, brainwashed, and imported” to carry out the deadly act in Gwoza, which claimed over 30 lives. He emphasized that the incident highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in Nigeria, noting that more than 180 people were critically injured and are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals in the state.
In response, the House urged security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
We Are In a State of War — Defence Headquarters
Reacting to the incident, the Defence Headquarters described the bombings as indicative of Nigeria being in a state of war. In a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, it was noted that the attacks were a response to recent successful military operations against terrorist groups.
Buba detailed the sequence of the attacks, which involved multiple suicide bombings using Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs). The first explosion occurred around 3:00 pm when a female bomber disguised as a beggar detonated an explosive at a wedding reception. A second explosion followed at 5:00 pm while casualties from the initial blast were being moved to the hospital. A third explosion targeted troops enforcing a curfew, and a fourth bombing was averted when the suspect detonated prematurely, causing only her own death.
Overall, the attacks resulted in 20 fatalities and 52 injuries. Buba emphasized that each life lost is a tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the victims. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and support the armed forces’ efforts to combat terrorism.
