The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, confirmed yesterday that multiple suicide bombings occurred at a wedding reception and a burial ceremony in Gwoza town, Borno State. The coordinated attacks in the afternoon caused widespread panic as people fled for their lives.
According to sources, over 30 people lost their lives, and more than 100 suffered various degrees of injuries. Many of the injured were transported to Maiduguri for medical treatment.
The first attack was carried out by an unidentified woman who infiltrated a wedding reception with two children and detonated her Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), resulting in numerous fatalities, including herself. Shortly after, another suicide bomber struck a nearby burial ceremony with similar devastating effects. A third explosion occurred minutes later, causing further casualties.
The Emir reported that over 100 people were injured, with the severely wounded being rushed to Maiduguri under military escort for urgent medical attention. He emphasized that the casualty figures are preliminary and promised to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Ahmed Usman Jaha, representing the Gwoza/Chibok/Damboa federal constituency, expressed his condolences to the families affected by the attacks. He prayed for the souls of the deceased to find peace and for the swift recovery of the injured.
Gwoza, located in southern Borno near the Cameroon border, was previously declared Boko Haram Territory after being captured by insurgents. Hundreds were killed before the town was eventually liberated by troops.