Police Avert Tragedy in Maiduguri, Safely Detonate Hidden Bomb

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

The Borno State Police Command has neutralised a potential security threat after safely detonating a buried Improvised Explosive Device (IED) discovered in Maiduguri, the state capital.

The device was uncovered during a routine surveillance and foot patrol carried out on Tuesday morning, May 5, 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., in the Layin Logo area of Moduganari within the Maiduguri metropolis.

Police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the development, explaining that the suspicious item was found inside an abandoned bag, raising immediate concern among operatives on patrol.

According to him, the command swiftly deployed its Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, which responded promptly to the scene.

“The EOD Unit Base 13 identified the object as an Improvised Explosive Device concealed in the bag and safely detonated it in accordance with standard operational procedures to safeguard lives and property,” Daso said.

He added that the operation was executed without casualties, averting what could have resulted in significant harm to residents in the densely populated area.

The police spokesperson called on members of the public to remain alert and security-conscious, urging them to report any suspicious movement or objects to the nearest police station or through emergency lines: 0806 807 5581 and 0802 347 3293.

Authorities also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible for planting the explosive device, as security agencies intensify efforts to prevent further threats in Maiduguri and its environs.

Ndume Pushes for New Constituencies in Borno South to Deepen Grassroots Representation

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

A fresh drive to reshape political representation in Borno State is gaining momentum as Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume intensifies efforts to secure additional State Assembly constituencies across Borno South.

The lawmaker, who represents the district in the Senate, is advocating for the delineation and activation of new constituencies in key areas, including Gwoza, Askira/Uba, and Biu. The move, he argues, is necessary to reflect current demographic realities and improve access to governance for underserved communities.

Senator Ndume based his proposal on the expansive landmass, scattered settlements, and challenging terrain that define much of Borno South. He also pointed to the evolving population dynamics driven by post-insurgency resettlement, which have significantly altered the structure and needs of communities in the region.

According to him, the existing constituency framework no longer adequately represents the people, stressing that effective democracy requires closer engagement between elected officials and constituents.

If approved by the Independent National Electoral Commission, the proposal would lead to the creation of additional State Assembly seats in the affected areas, thereby enhancing legislative accessibility and strengthening grassroots participation.

Observers say the initiative could correct long-standing imbalances in representation and bring governance closer to communities that have faced years of displacement and rebuilding challenges.

Senator Ndume, widely known for his advocacy on security, governance, and humanitarian recovery in the Northeast, maintained that democratic dividends must be tangible at the local level.

“This is about ensuring that governance is not distant but accessible,” he noted, adding that communities in Gwoza, Askira/Uba, and Biu deserve a stronger voice in decision-making processes.

The proposal is already attracting attention from stakeholders, with many describing it as a strategic intervention aimed at improving inclusivity and accelerating development across Borno South.

Tragedy in Camp: Female NYSC Member Dies in Maiduguri Hospital After Orientation Activities

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

A female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), whose identity has not been disclosed, has died in Maiduguri, Borno State, following activities at the temporary orientation camp.

The corps member reportedly passed away on Monday evening at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where she had been taken for medical attention.

Initial reports suggested that the death occurred after an evening parade drill at the camp. However, the NYSC in Borno State has refuted this claim, clarifying that the incident did not happen during the exercise.

Confirming the development over the weekend, the NYSC State Coordinator, Alhaji Nasir Bello, explained that the corps member had arrived at the camp with a pre-existing health condition.

“She died in the teaching hospital and not during parade drills. She reported to camp, and unfortunately, she had an underlying ailment,” he said.

Bello declined to disclose details of the ailment, noting that such information falls within the purview of medical authorities.

“It is not within my responsibility as state coordinator to make that public. You may direct such enquiries to the hospital where she was confirmed dead,” he added.

The incident has cast a shadow over activities at the orientation camp, even as officials maintain that due process was followed in handling the situation, which has raised concerns among participants about safety and transparency in the camp’s operations.