An unspecified number of travellers are feared dead after a suspected bomb explosion ripped through the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, triggering panic among commuters and residents in the area.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Zamfara State Command, Yazid Abubakar. Speaking in a telephone interview with Daily Post, Abubakar said details surrounding the blast were still sketchy.
“I can confirm that there was a blast in that area, but the incident just happened. I can’t tell you details yet. I will update you later,” he said.
Although official casualty figures have yet to be released, residents and eyewitnesses fear that many commuters may have been killed in the explosion. Some locals alleged that the device may have been planted by bandits who have continued to unleash violence across parts of the state.
Videos circulating on social media purportedly show the aftermath of the explosion, with travellers seen fleeing the scene in panic as smoke billowed from the affected area.
Reacting to the incident on social media platform X, a user identified as Nuhu Sada (@NuhuSada0) described the attack as tragic. “Another attack on innocent travelers in Zamfara. Families are grieving, lives are lost, and property destroyed. Security agencies must act quickly to prevent further harm and bring those responsible to justice,” he wrote.
Another user, @DanKatsina50, also raised concerns about security on the route, stating: “BREAKING NEWS: Moment ago, an explosion struck travelers on the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau way in Maru LGA, Zamfara State. The blast suspected to be an IED planted by bandits caused deaths and loss of property; casualties remain unconfirmed. Are security agencies investigating and what measures are being taken to secure this route?”
Meanwhile, in a separate development, residents of Offa in Kwara State were thrown into panic late Thursday night after loud explosions rocked parts of the town, damaging residential buildings. The cause of the explosions remains unclear.
The incident in Offa came amid widespread speculation following recent reports of military operations against insurgent groups. However, authorities have yet to clarify whether the explosions were linked to any external military action or solely a Nigerian security operation.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies are yet to release further details on the Zamfara explosion or confirm the number of casualties.
