A suspected improvised explosive device detonated on a busy highway in Zamfara State on Saturday afternoon, killing several travellers and once again exposing the deepening insecurity in Nigeria’s North West. The explosion occurred along the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area, a notorious route long associated with bandit attacks, kidnappings and deadly ambushes.
The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the incident, with the Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar, stating that a blast had occurred in the area and that security operatives were already responding. He said details were still sketchy as investigations continued, noting that the exact number of casualties had yet to be confirmed at the time of reporting.
Eyewitnesses who shared accounts on social media described a terrifying scene, with damaged vehicles scattered along the highway and travellers caught in the impact of the explosion. Some accounts suggested that the device was planted by armed bandits who now routinely deploy IEDs along major roads to terrorise civilians and security forces alike. While no group has claimed responsibility, security sources strongly suspect criminal gangs operating in the axis.
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The attack adds to a growing list of similar incidents in Zamfara, where bandits have increasingly adopted explosive devices as military pressure mounts against them. Throughout 2025, there have been reported IED attacks in parts of Bukkuyum, Dansadau and other flashpoints, further complicating efforts to secure the region.
Residents and community leaders have renewed calls for urgent and decisive government intervention to reclaim highways, protect commuters and dismantle bandit networks. As security agencies comb the area and assess the damage, authorities are expected to release more information on the casualties and the scope of the attack.
The latest explosion highlights the fragile security situation in Zamfara State, where years of banditry have left thousands displaced, many killed and entire communities living in fear along once-busy transport routes.
