…Expert blames the govt for weak regulations, misuse of chemicals
…Timely intelligence helps neutralise threats – Zagazola
The recent coordinated Maiduguri bombings have continued heightening the widespread panic, which indicates the return of long-forgotten suicide attacks in the counter-insurgency operations in Borno State and North-East.
This is making it the deadliest suicide attack in Nigeria since 16 June 2019, when three suspected JAS suicide bombers targeted a tea shop and film centre in the Mandarari community, Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, reportedly killing 30 people and wounding 20.
BusinessDay gathered that fortnight ago, the Special Forces Battalion was attacked by suicide bombers in Sambisa Forests, which led to the killing of dozens of soldiers, including a Lieutenant.
Also, it was further gathered that last week, a male suicide bomber blew himself up before reaching his target near Molai, the outskirts of Maiduguri.
The JAS and the Islamic State West Africa Province fighters first adopted the tactics in Nigeria in 2011, but suicide attacks reached their peak between 2015 and 2019.
Boko Haram Deploys Multiple Suicide Bombers in Borno, Yobe – Military warns
This development has triggered fresh concerns over the presence of multiple suicide bombers in Maiduguri and its environs, warning residents to stay away from crowded places amid heightened security threats.
Sanni Uba, the Media Information Officer, Operation Hadin Kai, said the coordinated attacks targeted busy public locations in a bid to cause maximum casualties and widespread panic.
The statement issued by Uba read, “The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) wishes to inform the general public across the North East that recent security developments indicate an increased threat of suicide bombing attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements during the final days of Ramadan.
“The unfortunate incidents recorded in Maiduguri on Monday evening, around Monday Market, Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), leading to casualties, further highlight the continued intent of terrorist elements to target densely populated civilian locations to create panic and gain propaganda advantage.
Read also: Nigeria’s 4th global terror ranking confirms Tinubu failure – ADC
“Historical patterns show that terrorist groups often intensify their activities during significant religious periods, particularly around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when places of worship, markets, motor parks, and other public gathering areas experience an increase in human traffic.”
According to him, to forestall any repeat occurrences, members of the public across the North East Region are strongly advised to remain security conscious, vigilant, and observant of their surroundings, particularly in crowded locations such as mosques, prayer grounds, markets, shopping areas, bus terminals, hospitals, and major road junctions.
“Worshippers attending night prayers (Taraweeh and Tahajjud) and other religious gatherings are encouraged to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel conducting screening and access control procedures. The public is specifically advised to observe the following precautionary measures:
“Avoid overcrowded areas whenever possible and maintain situational awareness when attending places of worship, markets, or public events.
“Parents and guardians are urged to be mindful of the movement of their children, especially during evening hours and night prayers,” he added.
Passengers Chide Military Over 2-kilometre Trek at Checkpoints in Yobe
In Yobe, following the security threat, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai reintroduced measures to tackle the infiltration of suicide bombers in the State.
But this approach didn’t go well with passengers, who complained that it had been enduring the earlier heat of the Boko Haram insurgency without success.
Mahammudu Baba, a motorist, lamented that the military had gone back to the old days when they subjected civilians to unnecessary pain, calling on the Yobe State government to prevail.
“This is unnecessary tactics, in this fasting period, they forced us to trek for more than kilometres in and out of Damaturu. They knew where Boko Haram are leaving, they should go and fight them and stop creating unnecessary tension in the town.”Baba lamented.
It will be recalled that on Monday evening, suspected Boko Haram terrorists carried out multiple suicide attacks, claiming 23 lives and injuring 146 others.
Read also: Nigeria records world’s largest spike in terror deaths, ranks fourth globally
Govt Fails to Oversee Chemical Management – Expert
Mustapha Tijjani Usman, a Chemical Security and Safety expert, mentioned that the relevant Authorities within the Country are neglecting crucial aspects of chemical security and management, thereby posing a significant risk not only to public safety and health but also to the environment.
He said, “This oversight raises concerns about the proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals, which could potentially lead to disastrous consequences if not adequately addressed.
“The lack of stringent measures and protocols in place diminishes the effectiveness of any existing regulations and hampers the overall safety framework that is necessary for protecting both the population and natural ecosystems from the dangers associated with chemical mishandling.
“The government has established various agencies responsible for overseeing chemical management, including the transportation, storage, and authorised use of these substances by end users.
“However, there remains a risk that third parties or insurgents may acquire chemicals without adhering to the required Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, thereby leading to potential misuse.
“Implementing comprehensive training on chemical management is essential to significantly reduce the risk of intentional misuse, which could pose a threat to both lives and property.
“Such training should be provided to chemical dealers, chemical vendors, security agencies, community leaders, and concerned citizens by government agencies or relevant consultants and subject matter experts”.
Consequently, Zagazola Makama, the Lake Chad Counter-insurgency Analyst, said the residents of Maiduguri have a crucial role to play in supporting military efforts to curb the rising spate of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the city and its outskirts.
He explained that community cooperation, particularly in neighbourhoods near high-risk areas and along major routes, ensures that military operations are informed by real-time, ground-level observations, significantly reducing the risk of casualties.
“By staying vigilant and reporting any suspicious objects, movements, or activities to security agencies promptly, civilians can provide timely intelligence that helps troops neutralise threats before they cause harm.
“Engaging in neighbourhood watch initiatives like the CJTF and partnering with local vigilante groups can further strengthen security.
“Additionally, fostering trust and collaboration between the military and communities is essential. Residents can participate in dialogue forums and provide feedback on security measures, helping troops understand local dynamics and adapt counter-IED strategies effectively.
‘By combining vigilance, prompt reporting, and cooperation with security forces, the people of Maiduguri can play an active role in safeguarding their city and supporting the military’s mission to neutralise explosive threats, creating a safer environment for all”, he noted.
Makama urged residents to monitor unusual behaviours, such as abandoned vehicles, unusual bags, or unexplained disturbances, and immediately alert authorities.
