Explosion hits Zamfara highway, casualties feared

An explosion suspected to have been caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) on Saturday rocked the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, with an undetermined number of travellers feared killed.

The blast reportedly occurred along the highway while vehicles were in transit, forcing commuters to abandon their journeys and flee the area in panic.

The Zamfara State Police Command reportedly confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar, told Daily Post in a telephone conversation that a blast had occurred, but said details were still sketchy.

“I can confirm that there was a blast in that area, but it just happened. I can’t give details yet. I will update you later,” he said.

Attempts to reach the police spokesman for further clarification were unsuccessful, as his mobile phone was switched off as of press time.

Meanwhile, videos circulating on social media platforms purportedly show the aftermath of the explosion, including damaged vehicles and frightened travellers running from the scene.

Reacting on X, a former Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate for the Kaduna State House of Assembly in the Zaria Kewaye Constituency, Nuhu Sada (@NuhuSada0), described the incident as another tragic attack on innocent Nigerians.

“Another tragic attack on innocent travellers in Zamfara. Families are grieving, lives are lost, and property destroyed. Security agencies must act swiftly to prevent further harm and bring those responsible to justice,” he wrote.

Another user, @DanKatsina50, claimed the blast was caused by an IED allegedly planted by bandits, noting that casualties were yet to be officially confirmed.

The latest incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in Zamfara and the wider North-West, where bandit attacks, kidnappings and assaults on major roads have persisted despite ongoing military and police operations.