Fire Triggers Arms Explosion in Maiduguri Barracks, Panic Among Residents

Residents of Maiduguri and surrounding areas were thrown into panic late Wednesday night when a series of loud explosions rocked the city, originating from the Giwa Military Barracks’ armory. 

Eyewitnesses reported that the deafening blasts began around 11:35 PM and continued for over two hours into Thursday morning, accompanied by massive flames visible near the barracks.

A senior military official confirmed that a fire in the armory section caused the explosions, dismissing rumors of an attack. 

“We are securing the area, but this was not an assault—just a fire that led to munitions detonating,” the officer said. 

Bunu Bukar, a witness, described chaotic scenes as firefighters struggled to contain the blaze amid ongoing explosions.

“Thousands of residents near the barracks fled their homes in fear,” he said.

Danjuma Salisu, a resident of the State Assembly Quarters, said the explosions were so severe that people ran to Tashan Bama for safety, only to find others already gathered there. 

Borno State Deputy Governor Dr. Umar Usman Kadafur urged calm in a public statement, clarifying that the blasts resulted from an armory fire, not a Boko Haram attack.

He advised residents to stay indoors while security forces managed the situation. 

“A combined team of fire services has extinguished the blaze, but secondary explosions may still occur,” Kadafur warned.

Preliminary findings suggested the extreme heat in Maiduguri may have contributed to the fire. 

Capt. Reuben Kovangiya of Operation HADIN KAI echoed this, attributing the explosions to high temperatures and assuring the public that troops were deployed to maintain order.

“There is no cause for alarm—this was not an attack,” he emphasized.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as displaced residents await further updates.

About The Author