By Ridwanullah Sakariyah
Residents of Maiduguri have called for stronger security patrols after armed men suspected to be terrorists attacked Ajilari Cross in the early hours of Monday.
The attack happened around 12:35 a.m. when the gunmen reportedly entered the area and began shooting intermittently, causing panic among residents.
Security forces later moved in and engaged the attackers. The operation involved troops from the land and air units of Operation Hadin Kai, officers of the Nigeria Police Force, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, hunters, and Civil Defense personnel.
The spokesperson of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed that the attackers were pushed back by the joint security team.
Daso said, “Yes, there was a suspected terrorist attack in Ajilari. As of this time, I can confirm that the attack has been foiled by combined security operatives, including the police, military, hunters, Civilian Joint Task Force and Civil Defence.”
When asked about casualties, the police spokesman said authorities were still gathering information.
He stated, “For now, we are yet to get any information regarding casualties.”
Daso also advised residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours while security agencies continue to monitor the situation.
After the operation, many residents said the city had returned to normal, though fear remained among some people living near the area.
A resident, Sani Kidda, told reporters that the tension had reduced but called for stronger security presence in the city.
Kidda said, “Everywhere is calm now, and the tension has reduced,” Kidda said.
He, however, called for continuous security surveillance across the state capital so that people can feel fully safe.
The latest incident came about weeks after terrorists attacked Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area of the state, where many civilians were reportedly killed, a military base burnt down, and hundreds abducted.
In a video circulated after the Ngoshe attack, a group identified as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad claimed responsibility and threatened to extend their operations to Maiduguri and even Abuja.
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