The Borno State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew following a devastating bomb blast that killed at least 16 people on Wednesday.
The tragic incident occurred at a market in the Kawori community, Konduga Local Government Area (LGA), located approximately 50 kilometres from the state capital, Maiduguri.
According to a statement released on Thursday by Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Borno State police command, a suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive device at the bustling market, leading to significant loss of life and injuries.
“In view of the constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security and law enforcement agencies toward the preservation of law and order in the state,” the statement began, “you are all aware of the incident that took place at Kawori, which was the detonation of improvised explosive devices ordinance device, resulting in the death of 16 persons, while several others were critically injured and are receiving treatment in various government hospitals across the state.”
In response to the attack, the Borno State government, in consultation with security agencies, has deemed it necessary to enforce a 24-hour curfew to maintain peace and order.
The curfew was announced by the state’s Executive Governor, Prof. Babagana Umar Zulum.
“His Excellency the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umar Zulum, in consultation with heads of security in the state, finds it expedient to declare a 24-hour curfew in the state with immediate effect,” Daso stated.
“I, therefore, wish to call upon the good people of Borno State to remain calm and law-abiding. Further developments will be communicated to you accordingly.”