A devastating attack has struck a local bus stop in Mairari village, located in the Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. At least nine passengers lost their lives when improvised explosive devices, planted by Boko Haram insurgents, detonated. The blast left many victims injured, with some evacuated to nearby hospitals in Monguno and Maiduguri for treatment.

The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, confirmed the incident, describing it as “inhumane.” He expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of life, stating, “It is unfortunate that nine of my resilient constituents were killed by planted IEDs today while waiting to board vehicles at a local bus stop in Mairari village. May Allah grant their souls Aljanatul Firdaus.” Lawan also extended his prayers for a speedy recovery to those injured in the blast.

The Guzamala Local Government Area has been under the control of Boko Haram insurgents, with the village of Mairari being a frequent target of attacks. Despite being resettled twice, the village remains largely deserted due to the constant threat of violence. The locals, who have taken refuge in nearby areas, occasionally visit their homes in Mairari to tend to their farms. Unfortunately, their movements have been monitored by terrorists, who planted the IEDs at the bus stop, taking advantage of the villagers’ routine.

Lawan emphasized the need for increased military intervention, calling on the authorities to take over the entire Guzamala Local Government Area to restore civil authority. He acknowledged the efforts of the newly deployed Theatre Commander of North East ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, and his troops in the fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP. The Speaker’s appeal for military action comes as the region continues to grapple with the insurgency, which has claimed countless lives and displaced many communities.

The military authorities have yet to comment on the latest incident, which has sent shockwaves through the region. As the people of Borno State mourn the loss of life, the international community is reminded of the ongoing struggle against terrorism in Nigeria and the need for continued support and cooperation to bring peace and stability to the affected areas.