TheCable

Twenty-two people were killed on Wednesday morning when two female suicide bombers struck at a mosque in Ummarari village near Molai, outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno state capital.

Sani Usman, army spokesman, confirmed the attack, in a statement saying 18 people also sustained injuries.

“This is to confirm that there were twin person-borne improvised explosive attack carried out by two female carriers in Ummarari village near Molai, outskirts of Maiduguri metropolis, Borno State, this morning,” the statement read.

“The first attack targeted a mosque, while the second blast about 50 metres away, a few minutes later. Sadly, 22 people were killed and 18 others sustained various degrees of injuries.

“Troops, security agents and care givers have been mobilized to scene, while the wounded have been evacuated to Molai General Hospital for treatment.

“Troops, security agents and the Civilian JTF have secured the area and are combing the environment for possible clues.

“Meanwhile, we implore the members of the public to be more security conscious, cooperate with the troops and security agencies. They should also please report any suspicious persons, objects or happenings to troops or security agencies at all times.”

The attack comes a day after Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, said his men were now using the very strategy of the Boko Haram sect to dislodge the insurgents.