By Our Correspondent
National News – At least eight people were feared dead on Monday morning after suspected terrorists detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) that destroyed a bridge and struck a vehicle in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria.
The deadly explosion occurred along Luma Road, a key route connecting the Luma, Babana and Agwara communities, raising fresh concerns about insecurity in the region.
According to local reports, the attackers allegedly planted the explosive device overnight before detonating it in the early hours of Monday, March 23, 2026.
The blast damaged the bridge and later exploded when a vehicle traveling between Nuku and Woro passed over the area.
The vehicle reportedly triggered the device, resulting in the death of seven passengers and the driver.
Residents said the affected road is an important link for traders and travelers moving to the Babana border market, a busy commercial hub that operates every Monday and attracts people from nearby communities and neighboring areas.
The destruction of the bridge has disrupted movement and trade while heightening fears among residents about further attacks.
The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident and said security operatives were already carrying out clearance operations in the affected area.
According to him, the police received the report at about 6:30 a.m., revealing that suspected terrorists had planted the explosive device around 2:00 a.m. inside the Park Forest axis before targeting the bridge.
Abiodun explained that the bridge sustained significant damage during the explosion, adding that security agencies had intensified monitoring of the area to prevent further attacks.
He noted that officers and other security personnel were working to secure the road and ensure that any additional explosive devices planted in the area are safely removed.
Authorities have urged residents and travelers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies as operations continue to restore safety along the Luma–Babana–Agwara route.
