By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. O.O. Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, have arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, following a triple bombing on Monday evening that claimed 23 lives and left 108 people injured.
The devastating attacks have sparked widespread concern and condemnation, with many calling for increased security measures to protect civilians.
The service chiefs landed at the Maiduguri Air Force Base on Wednesday, in a white and red-painted jet, amidst heightened security measures. Their visit is part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to security chiefs to relocate to the state and take charge of the situation.
The President’s move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing the region.
President Tinubu had earlier mourned the victims and commended troops for repelling coordinated assaults on military positions. He described the attacks as “final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear”.
The President’s statement has been echoed by many Nigerians, who are calling for increased vigilance and cooperation with security agencies to defeat the terrorists.
The President had instructed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri and ordered emergency agencies to provide care for the injured.
On arrival, the CDS and COAS were received by top military officials at the Maiduguri Air Force Base, including the Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, and the GOC.
The visit aims to assess the security situation and strengthen coordinated response strategies.
The Nigerian Army has announced intensified surveillance and security operations across Maiduguri to track down suspects and prevent further attacks. The police force has also increased deployments and enhanced surveillance measures across the metropolis.
The investigation into the bombings is ongoing, with security agencies working to identify and apprehend those responsible. The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The security agencies have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The service chiefs’ visit is expected to boost morale among security personnel and demonstrate the government’s resolve to tackle insecurity in the region.
The situation in Maiduguri remains tense, with residents and stakeholders eagerly awaiting updates on the security measures being implemented to prevent further attacks.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents are advised to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies. The government has assured the public that everything is being done to ensure their safety and security.
The international community has also joined Nigerians in condemning the attacks and expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. The incident has highlighted the need for increased international cooperation to address the global threat of terrorism.
The Nigerian government has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that such attacks are not repeated. The service chiefs’ visit is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing the country.
