24-hour curfew has been imposed in Borno state after 16 people were killed and 20 others injured in a suicide attack.
At least 16 people were reportedly killed after a suspected suicide bomber attacked a market in the Konduga area of the state.
The explosion took place at the market in Kawori community, Konduga LGA, which lies about 50 kilometres from Maiduguri.
In a statement on Thursday, Nahum Daso, spokesperson of the police command in Borno, said the explosion led to the death of 16 people.
“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 reads.
“You are all aware of the incident that took place at Kawori which was the detonation of improvised explosive devices ordinance device which led to the death of (16) persons while several others were critically injured and on admission across various Government hospitals in the state.
“In line with our constitutional mandate towards the restoration of law and order 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 24hrs curfew in the state with immediate effect.
“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 please.”
Simultaneously, in Zamfara State, joint security forces comprising the Nigerian Police and the Army intervened to disperse protesters in the capital, Gusau.
The demonstrators had reportedly mounted a roadblock along the Government House, protesting against various grievances, including perceived government inaction on issues of insecurity and governance.
The situation escalated when the protesters refused to disperse despite warnings from the authorities. In response, the police said it used teargas to break up the gathering, while the army deployed an armored vehicle to restore order.
The security forces say they successfully cleared the area, and normalcy has since been restored.
The police and other security agencies have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order in the face of the protest. They have also called on the public to cooperate with the authorities and avoid any actions that could lead to further violence or disruption.
As the situation continues to develop, both in Borno and Zamfara, the authorities say they remain vigilant and ready to respond to any incidents that may arise. The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and comply with all directives from law enforcement agencies.