Army exposes mastermind behind deadly suicide bombings in Northeast

Abdullateef Fowewe

Troops from Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have achieved a significant victory in counter-terrorism efforts by identifying Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf,” as the key coordinator of a suicide bombing network plaguing Nigeria’s Northeast region.

The identification according to a statement on Saturday by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, OPHK’s Media Information Officer, stemmed from intelligence-led operations in Maiduguri’s Kalmari area on December 31, 2025, where 14 suspects tied to the terror cell were arrested.

A detained suspect, Ibrahim Muhammad, directly fingered Umar during interrogation.

“Shariff Umar was responsible for recruiting, preparing, directing, and dispatching suicide bombers to assigned targets, as well as coordinating logistics and delivery of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) components,” investigators revealed from corroborated statements.

Umar’s network orchestrated the deadly Gamboru Market Mosque attack on December 24, 2025, where his accomplice Adamu detonated a suicide vest.

He also coordinated a foiled attempt in Damaturu, personally handing IED components to the bomber in Maiduguri.

Further probes linked Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu, and stepdaughter Amina, who confirmed seeing a suspect bomber at their home.

All suspects remain in custody for ongoing investigations to dismantle the full network and seize remaining explosives.

OPHK emphasised public vigilance, “Terrorist networks often survive by hiding within communities, exploiting silence, fear, or misplaced loyalty.

“Timely information from law-abiding citizens remains one of the most powerful tools in preventing attacks and saving innocent lives.”

Uba urged cooperation, “Members of the public are therefore strongly urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to security agencies.”