A lawmaker representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, has alleged that terrorists used commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, to deliver explosives during the deadly attacks in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The attacks, which took place on Monday evening, left at least 23 people dead and more than 100 others injured, according to initial reports. The explosions occurred around 7 p.m., just as many residents were breaking their Ramadan fast.
The blasts targeted busy locations in the city, including the Post Office area, the popular Monday Market, and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Authorities have attributed the incident to suspected members of Boko Haram, who are believed to have used improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Security agencies said the attackers adopted suicide bombing methods, a tactic commonly associated with insurgent groups operating in the North-East region.
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has long been at the centre of Nigeria’s fight against insurgency. Although the frequency of attacks had reduced in recent years, incidents like this show that the threat is still present.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ndume gave further insight into how the attacks may have been carried out.
According to him, the terrorists used tricycles to transport and deliver the explosives to crowded locations.
“You can imagine, even the bomb that exploded was delivered by Keke NAPEP,” he said.
“They package it and give people in tricycles to deliver to specific spots.”
The use of everyday transport systems such as tricycles raises concerns about how easily attackers can blend into normal city life without raising suspicion.
Tricycles are widely used in many Nigerian cities, especially in the North, as a cheap and accessible means of transportation.
Ndume also said the attackers rely on a “hit-and-run” strategy, which allows them to strike quickly and disappear before security forces can respond.
“What they do is hit and run,” he explained. “They gather, share information, and then carry out the attack.”
He added that the terrorists often depend on informants within local communities to plan and execute their operations.
“They get information from some citizens too. They have informants within society,” he said.
This claim highlights ongoing concerns about internal support networks that may be aiding insurgents, either willingly or under pressure.
The senator warned that more attacks could occur, suggesting that additional explosive devices or attackers might still be within the city.
His warning has heightened anxiety among residents, many of whom are already dealing with the trauma of the recent blasts.
Security agencies have not confirmed the presence of additional threats, but authorities are said to be on high alert.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Ndume pointed to a lack of adequate intelligence as a key factor that allowed the attacks to happen.
“The problem is lack of adequate intelligence,” he said.
He argued that better intelligence gathering and sharing among security agencies could help prevent such incidents.
Nigeria’s security challenges have often been linked to gaps in intelligence, coordination, and rapid response.
Another issue raised by Ndume is the use of social media by terrorist groups.
He expressed concern that attackers are recording their activities and sharing them online, including on platforms like TikTok.
“You can imagine the terrorists have the audacity to record their atrocities and send them out,” he said.
This development reflects a growing trend where extremist groups use digital platforms to spread fear, recruit members, and share propaganda.
Ndume argued that if security agencies can track the phones of ordinary citizens, they should also be able to track the communications of terrorists.
“If my phone can be tracked, why not theirs?” he asked.
Borno State has been the epicentre of Nigeria’s insurgency for over a decade. The conflict, largely driven by Boko Haram and its splinter groups, has led to thousands of deaths and displaced millions of people.
Maiduguri, as the state capital, has witnessed several attacks over the years, including bombings in markets, mosques, and public places.
In recent years, the Nigerian military has recorded successes in pushing insurgents out of major towns. However, attacks in rural areas and occasional strikes in urban centres continue to pose serious challenges.
The use of suicide bombers, especially targeting crowded places, remains one of the most deadly tactics employed by insurgents.
The latest attack has once again shaken residents of Maiduguri, many of whom had begun to feel safer after a period of relative calm.
Markets, hospitals, and public spaces are central to daily life, and attacks in such locations create widespread fear.
The fact that the explosions occurred during Ramadan, a period of fasting and prayer for Muslims, has added to the emotional impact of the incident.
Families of victims are now dealing with loss and injuries, while others remain concerned about their safety.
Security agencies have increased patrols and surveillance in Maiduguri following the attacks.
Officials say efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The Federal Government has repeatedly pledged to end insurgency and improve security across the country.
However, incidents like this highlight the ongoing challenges faced by security forces.
Ndume’s comments have brought attention to evolving tactics used by terrorists and the need for stronger security measures.
The use of tricycles to deliver explosives shows how attackers continue to adapt and find new ways to carry out their operations.
As investigations continue, there will be increased focus on improving intelligence systems and preventing future attacks.
For residents of Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State, the priority remains safety and a return to normal life.