The deadly bombings that rocked Maiduguri have drawn sharp condemnation from Engr. Obi Njoku, who says the attack underscores a dangerous collapse in Nigeria’s security framework.
In a statement released on March 18, Njoku reacted to the multiple explosions that struck busy civilian locations across the city, leaving at least 23 people dead and more than 100 injured. The coordinated nature of the likely suicide attacks has intensified fears of a renewed insurgency threat in the North-East.
Njoku described the incident as a grim reminder that the country remains far from secure, despite repeated assurances from authorities that insurgents had been subdued.
“This is not just another attack—it is proof that the system meant to protect Nigerians is not working,” he said. “When a city like Maiduguri, once considered heavily fortified, can be breached so easily, it raises serious concerns about where Nigerians are truly safe.”
The timing of the attack during a period of religious observance has further deepened the tragedy, with families reportedly caught in moments of peace that quickly turned to chaos.
He criticised what he called the government’s habitual response to such incidents, arguing that official statements of condemnation have lost meaning in the face of recurring violence.
“Words cannot replace action. Nigerians are tired of predictable reactions that do nothing to prevent the next attack,” Njoku said, insisting that leadership must go beyond sympathy and demonstrate real capacity to secure lives.
The statement also raised concerns over intelligence failures and weak coordination among security agencies, suggesting that warning signs were either missed or ignored.
According to Njoku, the continuation of such attacks reflects a deeper leadership problem, where accountability is lacking and urgency is absent.
He called for immediate and decisive action, including a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security strategy, improved intelligence operations, and honest communication with citizens.
“Nigeria cannot continue like this,” he warned. “Every life lost is a painful reminder that the current approach is not working. The government must act—not just react.”
The latest explosions add to a growing pattern of attacks in Borno State, signalling what many observers fear is a resurgence of insurgent activity in the region, with civilians once again bearing the brunt.