Combined security operatives, including troops from the land and air components of Operation Hadin Kai, the Police, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), successfully repelled a heavy terrorist attack on Monday at Ajilari Cross in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The assault began around 12:35 a.m., with terrorists firing sporadically before security forces were mobilised to the scene. ASP Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, confirmed the attack had been foiled.
“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,” Daso said.
While casualty details remain unconfirmed, the Police Public Relations Officer urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. Residents reported that normalcy has returned to the area. Sani Kidda, a local resident, said, “Everywhere is calm now, and the tension has reduced,” adding that continued security surveillance is necessary to restore full confidence among citizens.
The attack follows a deadly assault on March 4 in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area, where terrorists burnt a military base, killed civilians, and abducted over 300 residents. A group claiming responsibility, Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, had vowed to extend their attacks to Maiduguri and Abuja. In a video statement, the group threatened to claim additional territories, citing the Ngoshe attack as a success.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and maintain heightened security in Maiduguri to prevent further incidents.
