Grief enveloped the town of Konduga in Borno State as families and community members gathered to bury victims of a devastating suicide bombing carried out by a suspected female Boko Haram operative on Friday night. The attack, which targeted a bustling food joint and fish market in Konduga, claimed at least 24 lives and left several others injured, according to the Borno State Police Command.
The explosion occurred around 9:30 PM at Tashan Kifi, a popular entry point known for its vibrant fish market, where residents had gathered to purchase food. The attacker, disguised as a civilian, detonated an improvised explosive device, causing chaos and leaving scenes of devastation. Eyewitnesses described a harrowing aftermath, with victims lying motionless amid cries for help as smoke filled the air.
The Borno State Police Command, through spokesperson ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the tragic toll, noting that efforts are ongoing to identify the victims and notify their families to ensure burials align with religious practices. Medical personnel at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where the injured were evacuated, are working tirelessly to treat survivors, some of whom sustained severe injuries.
Local sources reported that the suicide bomber was burnt beyond recognition, complicating identification efforts. The attack, suspected to be orchestrated by Boko Haram, has reignited fears of escalating violence in Nigeria’s northeast, a region plagued by the group’s 16-year insurgency that has killed thousands and displaced millions.
Security forces, including the Nigerian Army and emergency response teams, were swiftly deployed to the scene to secure the area and assist with rescue operations. Authorities have since reinforced security in Konduga and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks and restore public confidence.
As the community mourns, a mass burial was held on Saturday, with residents shedding tears for the lives lost in the senseless act of violence. No group has officially claimed responsibility, but Boko Haram’s history of targeting civilian spaces in the region points to their likely involvement.
The tragedy underscores the persistent security challenges in Borno State, despite government efforts to curb the insurgency. Community leaders and residents are calling for increased protection and support for those affected by the attack, as Konduga grapples with the pain of loss and the urgent need for healing.
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