A deadly explosion from a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) has killed at least four people and injured no fewer than 21 others along the Katarko-Goniri Road in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday as the victims were traveling to the popular Buniyadi market. Their vehicle reportedly triggered the hidden explosive, resulting in immediate casualties.

Local sources confirmed that the bodies of the four deceased have been taken home for burial, while the injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital and a specialist hospital in Damaturu.

Gotala community, where the explosion took place, lies at the fringes of the Sambisa forest, an area known for the prolonged activities of Boko Haram insurgents over the past 15 years.

Eyewitnesses disclosed that the explosion was not the first along the route. On Thursday, vigilante groups and military vehicles reportedly ran over another IED in the same area, resulting in further casualties. However, the military is yet to release an official statement on both incidents.

Disturbed by the growing insecurity, relatives of the victims have urged the Yobe State Government to urgently rehabilitate the Katarko-Goniri Road. 

They warn that the deteriorated condition of the road is aiding insurgent activities and endangering both civilians and the nearby military formation in Goniri.