Maiduguri blasts: Nigeria must not return to terror era — CNG

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has strongly condemned the deadly bomb attacks in Maiduguri, warning that Nigeria must not slide back into an era of terrorism, fear, and mass killings.

The explosions reportedly occurred at the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, as well as at the Monday Market and Post Office areas, shattering what the group described as a fragile peace gradually being rebuilt after years of insurgency in the North-East.

These attacks are not only heinous and senseless, but also represent a dangerous signal that forces of terror are once again testing the resolve of our nation.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the group described the coordinated explosions as “barbaric and cowardly.“

CNG said the attacks were not only heinous but also a troubling indication that террорист elements were once again testing the resolve of the nation.

Charanchi said: “Let this be stated with absolute clarity that, Nigeria must never, and will never, return to the dark era of bomb blasts, fear, and mass killings. Never again!

“These despicable acts are not only an attack on innocent lives but a direct assault on our collective humanity, our national stability, and the fragile peace that the people of Maiduguri and indeed the entire North-East have worked so hard to rebuild.”

The group expressed condolences to families of victims, the government and people of Borno State, and the Shehu of Borno, whose domain has again been thrown into mourning. It also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the blasts.

The coalition called for urgent and decisive action from the Federal Government, the Borno State Government, and security agencies, urging them to move beyond routine responses and decisively confront the renewed threat.

CNG raised concerns over renewed activities linked to Boko Haram in parts of the North-East, warning that the resurgence coincides with the controversial deployment of foreign troops in the region.

Charanchi said: “The CNG is deeply concerned by renewed activities linked to Boko Haram in parts of the North-East which coincide with the controversial deployment of American troops in the area. We opposed such deployment ab initio.

“We restate our position that Nigeria has the capacity and institutional strength to tackle its security challenges without reliance on foreign troops, whose presence may complicate the situation.

“The Federal Government must urgently review this approach and ensure all security strategies are anchored on national interest, accountability, and transparency.

“CNG also renews its call on the Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to identify and decisively deal with sponsors and financiers of terrorism. Those who fund and sustain terror must no longer operate with impunity; they must be tracked, prosecuted, and dealt with ruthlessly, without fear or favour, regardless of status or connections.

“At a time when innocent citizens are being killed and communities are once again gripped by fear, the presence, leadership, and command responsibility of the President at home is not optional but imperative.

“The resurgence of such attacks is a painful reminder that terrorism, though degraded, has not been completely defeated. It requires renewed strategy, stronger intelligence coordination, and visible leadership at all levels to ensure that it is permanently eradicated.

“The people of Maiduguri, North-East, and indeed the entire nation have endured too much pain and loss over the years. We cannot be forced to relive those dark days again. Nigeria must not be pushed backwards.”

CNG urged Bola Ahmed Tinubu to cut short his ongoing trip to the United Kingdom and return to take direct charge of the security situation, describing his presence in the country as “imperative” at a time of renewed violence.

The CNG further challenges the relevant authorities to adopt appropriate technology, and new strategy to decisively confront and neutralize this resurgence of terror as there must be no room for complacency, and tolerance for lapses.

“The people of Maiduguri have suffered enough. The North-East has paid a heavy price. Nigeria must not be dragged backwards into an era we have collectively resisted with great sacrifice.

“The CNG reiterates that error must never be allowed to take root again. Not in Maiduguri. Not in the North. Not anywhere in Nigeria. We urge residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.

“While we collectively demand accountability and decisive action from those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives and property. Together, we must stand united against terror and defend the peace and stability of our nation.”