Tragic Bomb Blast Claims Lives of Two Education Officials in Borno State
In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through Borno State, two staff members of the Damboa Local Education Authority (LEA) tragically lost their lives in a bomb blast along the Damboa–Maiduguri highway on Monday, May 12, 2025.
The victims, identified as Blessings Luka and Gideon Bitterleaf, were on their way from Damboa to Maiduguri when the devastating explosion occurred. According to reports from security analyst Zagazola Makama, the two individuals were traveling in a Toyota Hiace van that was transporting mangoes at the time of the blast. Eyewitnesses have shared that the vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), which is believed to have been planted by insurgents.
The explosion was swift and brutal, claiming the lives of Luka and Bitterleaf instantly. Several others who were nearby sustained injuries, though the extent of their conditions has not been fully disclosed. The blast was a stark reminder of the ongoing violence and insecurity that has plagued northern Nigeria, particularly in areas like Borno State, where insurgent activities continue to threaten the safety of civilians and security personnel alike.
A local source within the Damboa Local Government confirmed the identities of the victims and spoke highly of their contributions to the community. "They were both dedicated and hardworking officials who were deeply committed to advancing education in the area," the source said. The loss of these two individuals is not only a personal tragedy for their families but also a significant blow to the local education sector, which continues to face enormous challenges due to the insecurity in the region.
In the wake of this attack, security forces have swiftly cordoned off the area, launching an investigation to determine those responsible for this heinous act. While the perpetrators remain unidentified, authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice and prevent further attacks on innocent civilians.
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing vulnerability of civilians in conflict zones and serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of insurgency in the region. As investigations continue, the local community remains in shock, and there is a collective call for greater security measures to protect civilians and critical infrastructure from future attacks.
