By Juliet Eze and Obisue Emmanuel
At least eight people were killed on Monday following coordinated Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks in Niger State and Kwara State, in incidents that also destroyed a major bridge and disrupted a key international trade route.
The deadliest attack occurred in Niger State on Monday morning when a commercial vehicle struck a planted IED along the Wawa–Kaiama Road, killing the driver and seven passengers instantly. One female survivor was left critically injured.
Nigerian Pilot reports that the destruction of the bridge has effectively cut off access to the Babanna major border market, a critical economic hub linking Nigeria to the Republic of Benin.
The fatality count reached eight after a commercial Toyota vehicle struck a planted IED on the Wawa-Kaiama Road killing a driver and seven passengers instantly, leaving only one female survivor who remains in critical condition.
It would be recalled that this segment of the road serves as a primary artery between Niger and Kwara states. Local leaders in Woro confirmed the incident, noting that the community is still reeling from previous insurgent raids that displaced much of the population.
The road also serves as a gateway to Kebbi State and Kontagora making its closure a significant blow to regional logistics.
The Niger State Police Command confirmed that the bridge was sabotaged at approximately 2:00 am on Monday.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun stated that the damage occurred during ongoing security operations in the area, suggesting the terrorists used explosives to stall pursuing forces.
He however said that while the bridge is impassable for vehicles, residents report that some motorcyclists are attempting to manoeuvre through the debris to reach the border.
Meanwhile, a driver identified as Zuberu was among those who were affected in Kwara community explosion while a woman was also injured and has been rushed to Ilorin on the directive of the Kaiama Local Government Area Council Chairman.
No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion, although residents suspect the IED may have been detonated by members of Boko Haram.
It would be recalled that last month, no fewer than 75 residents were killed and several houses set ablaze when suspected terrorists attacked the Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.
