Residents of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, were gripped by fear in the early hours of Monday following a suspected terrorist attack in several parts of the city.
The incident reportedly affected areas including Dala, Bulamari, and Ajilari Cross.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers opened sporadic gunfire around 12:35 a.m., creating panic among residents and prompting a rapid response from security agencies.
Some also reported hearing loud explosions during the attack.
The Borno State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the situation, stating that security operatives had been dispatched to the scene.
“Yes, there is a suspected terrorist attack at Ajilari Cross. I am currently on my way to the scene. I will give you details later,” he said.
Military and police reinforcements were reportedly deployed quickly to contain the situation in the affected neighborhoods.
One resident, Abdulamalik Aminu, who lives near the Pompommari Bypass, described the chaos caused by the gunfire. “From my area, we heard it loudly. All of us are outside now. Some people are trying to leave their homes. Boko Haram members are exchanging gunfire with security personnel, but for now, the situation has calmed down,” he said.
Punch also gathered that military helicopters were deployed over Maiduguri and its surroundings during the attack.
“Helicopters are currently flying around,” another resident, speaking anonymously, added.
