The Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has distributed foodstuff to victims and families of those affected by the multiple suicide bombings in Gwoza town of Borno.

18 persons were confirmed dead with many others seriously injured in the Saturday incidents that occurred separately at a wedding ceremony and funeral prayer.

The director general of SEMA, Dr Barkindo Muhammad, said the materials comprising bags of rice and maize were presented to the families of those who lost their lives, those receiving treatment and those treated and discharged.

Mr Muhammad said the gesture which was meant to cushion the hardship of those affected was in line with the mandate of the agency.

According to Mr Muhammad, the accurate number of casualties in the accidents are yet to be ascertained as investigation is still ongoing.

Borno acting Governor, Umar Kadafur, in company with the Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Sen. Ali Ndume, had visited victims of the incidents in hospital, where he assured them of free treatment.

Meanwhile, residents of Gwoza have resorted to precautionary measures to avert falling victims to suicide bombers.

Some of the precautionary measures taken by residents following a rife speculation that many suicide bombers were on the prowl in the town include compliance with the curfew imposed by government and the avoidance of gatherings and strangers.

“People are now distancing themselves frqom all sorts of gatherings including sitting in groups of more than five people to avoid being targeted.

“There’s rumours that many suicide bombers have been deployed into town and we are taking the speculation very serious base on what happened,” a resident who identified himself as Musa Hambagda said.

Joel Ishaku, Buba Ibahim and Hajara Muhammad, who lost relations in the incidents said they were yet to recover and have restricted their movements.

“One has to take measures for safety until things improve. We need more proactive measures from the authorities for a lasting solution to the problem.

“The military need to harass the terrorists non stop, by keeping them on the run and defensive so that they won’t have time to plan and attack, ” Mr Ishaku advised.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Maiduguri to condole with the government and people of the state over the incident as well as participate in the funeral prayer of the mother of former governor of the state, Sen. Ali Modu- Sheriff, who passed away on Sunday after a brief illness.

(NAN)