At least eight weekly markets across Yobe East have been shut down following renewed attacks by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in the area.
Markets affected include those in Bumsa, Goniri, Gujba, Katarko, Kukareta, and Geidam, with traders abandoning their stalls due to rising fear and violence. Commercial activities have come to a halt, especially after recent explosions and ambushes.
Local traders confirmed to Channels Television that the markets stopped running last week. One of them, Musa Ali from Geidam, said, “We were getting ready for the Wednesday market when we heard the road was not safe. Everyone turned back.”
The Yobe State Government, however, announced that only three markets had been officially shut for now. These are Katarko, Kukareta, and Buni Yadi.
In a statement signed by the Security Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni, retired Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam, the government explained that the closures were due to ongoing security operations.
“This is to enable some proactive engagements and consolidate the successes recorded in the ongoing counter-insurgency operation in the state,” the statement said.
He assured that the measure is temporary and was designed to help security forces meet key targets.
“This temporary measure became necessary to achieve some set targets to improve the security situation in the affected areas and the state in general,” he added.
The government also called for understanding from residents and market operators, asking them to support the military’s efforts.
The latest market closures follow an incident in which an explosive device went off along the Katarko-Goniri road. Four people reportedly died in the blast, and 21 others were injured.
Since then, tension has spread across surrounding towns, and many residents have stayed indoors for fear of further attacks.
Authorities have not said when the markets will reopen, but security patrols have increased in the affected locations. Traders and locals are hoping that peace returns soon so they can continue their businesses.
