Sporadic gunshots as Boko Haram attacks Maiduguri

There is currently tension in Maiduguri, capital of Borno state, due to an attack by the Boko Haram sect.

A resident of Addawari village, Jiddari-Polo area, told TheCable that the insurgents have been shooting since about 5:30pm.

“We have been indoors for the past two hours. Sounds of gunshot everywhere. We can’t even go out to break our fast,” the resident said.

TheCable observed hundreds Giwa barracks residents, leaving in droves.

Security operatives, who were trying to repel the insurgents, assured residents of their safety, but many fled their homes and sought safety in nearby locations.

Sani Usman, spokesman of the Nigerian Army, asked residents to keep calm.

“The people of Maiduguri and its environs should not panic, as everything is under control,” Usman said.

The attack happened at a time Tukur Burutai, chief of army staff, was at his official residence in Giwa barracks.