According to Punch, The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has condemned the recent suicide bombings in Borno State as cowardly acts by Boko Haram terrorists, despite claims of significant degradation of the insurgents.
Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, Director of Defence Media Operations, addressed the media on Tuesday, responding to the multiple suicide bombings that occurred in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State on Saturday. The attacks, which resulted in 32 deaths as of Monday, also left 52 others injured, with some in critical condition.
Edward explained that the attacks involved coordinated person-borne Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The first explosion occurred at a wedding reception in Mararaba Hausari Street, perpetrated by a female suicide bomber disguised as a beggar. Shortly after, another female suicide bomber detonated an explosive nearby, followed by a third attack targeting troops enforcing a curfew in the area, resulting in casualties including a soldier and two hybrid forces members. A fourth attempted attack was thwarted when the suspect prematurely detonated her device, resulting in her own death.
In response to the incidents, Gen. Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, expressed condolences to the victims and their families. The DHQ asserted that the attacks were likely reprisals by terrorists for recent military successes against them.
The House of Representatives has also mandated its Committee on National Security and Intelligence to investigate the bombings, which have drawn significant national and international attention.
The DHQ reiterated its commitment to decisively clamp down on Boko Haram terrorists, despite their attempts to destabilize the region.