Multiple suicide attacks devastated Gwoza town in Borno State on Saturday, resulting in about 30 deaths and over 100 injuries.

The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, confirmed the attacks targeted a wedding reception and a funeral.

The attacks, carried out by unidentified female suicide bombers, caused widespread panic as people fled for their lives.

Sources said, “More than 30 people were killed with over 100 sustaining various degrees of injuries, even as many of the victims have been evacuated to Maiduguri for medical attention.”

Speaking on the devastation, Emir Timta said, “The entire Gwoza council area is in mourning following multiple suicide attacks on our community.”

He explained that the first explosion occurred at a wedding reception when a woman, accompanied by two children, detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

He added that the blast resulted in multiple fatalities, including the bomber herself.

The Emir further explained that shortly after, another female suicide bomber struck a nearby funeral, adding to the carnage.

According to him, as the community was reeling from these two attacks, a third explosion was reported, further escalating the casualties.

“At least, over 100 people were injured, and most of them who sustained serious injuries have been rushed to Maiduguri with military escort for proper medical attention,” Timta stated, adding that the full details of the casualties are still being assessed.

In response to the horrific events, Ahmed Usman Jaha, representing the Gwoza/Chibok/Damboa federal constituency, expressed his condolences.

“I sympathize with the families of those who lost their loved ones in the multiple attacks and pray to Allah to grant the souls of the deceased Aljannatul Firdaus, and wish those who sustained injuries a quick recovery,” he said.

Gwoza, a town in southern Borno bordering the Republic of Cameroon, has a troubled history with insurgency. It was once declared Boko Haram Territory after insurgents captured it, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people before the area was later liberated by military forces.