Suspected Boko Haram insurgents attempted to breach security at Ajilari Cross, a community on the outskirts of Maiduguri, in the early hours of Monday, triggering panic among residents after sporadic gunfire echoed across the area.
Residents said the attack began around 1:00 a.m., as heavy gunshots were heard in several parts of the neighbourhood, forcing many people indoors amid fears of a possible insurgent incursion.
Preliminary reports indicate that security forces responded swiftly, repelling the attempted infiltration and moving reinforcements to the scene. Amateur footage circulating after the incident showed parts of the area engulfed in flames, with security personnel actively securing the vicinity.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, Nuhum Daso, confirmed the incident and urged residents to remain indoors while joint security operatives carried out clearance operations in the affected area.
By 7:00 a.m., calm had largely returned, although military personnel maintained a cordon around the location, restricting access until authorities could certify the area as fully secure.
Ajilari Cross is situated on the edge of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, a region that has repeatedly faced insurgent threats over the years.
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