According to reports, tragedy struck in Gwoza town, Borno, earlier today when two suicide bombers detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at a wedding venue and subsequent burial, leading to the deaths of eight people, including a soldier, and injuries to sixteen others.
According to reports, the first explosion occurred at a wedding held at Tashan Mararaba, near the Fire Service in Gwoza town.
A female suicide bomber, carrying a baby on her back, infiltrated the venue and detonated the IED. The explosion resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including wedding guests, and injured several others.
A survivor of the attack recounted the harrowing moment to reporters, that the bomber, posing as a guest, triggered the explosive device.
A soldier stationed at a nearby military base was also killed in the blast as the bomber crossed the road opposite the base before detonating the device.
Another suicide bomber targeted the burial of the victims. Disguised as a mourner, the bomber detonated an IED at the burial ground, killing one person.
The second attack added to the community’s grief and compounded the day’s tragedy; the injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Gwoza.
Following the attacks, the Nigerian Army responded promptly, repelling an attempted reinforcement attack by the terrorists at the 192 Brigade.
The military has since imposed a curfew in Gwoza to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further incidents.
The spokesperson of Sector One Operation Hadin Kai and 7 Division confirmed the incident, noting that no detailed situation report had been received when filling this report.