Panic as bomb explosion hits gusau funtua highway in Nigeria zamfara state.

Panic broke out in the early hours of Wednesday along the busy Gusau–Funta Highway in Zamfara State after a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated, causing fear and confusion among commuters.

According to a report by Africa Independent Television (AIT), the explosion involved a trailer transporting cement from Sokoto State to Kaduna State. The blast severely damaged the front part of the truck, forcing it to stop abruptly on the highway. As a result, traffic movement was immediately disrupted, leaving many motorists stranded in long queues.

Eyewitnesses reported that panic quickly spread across the area amid suspicions that bandits had planted the explosive device along the road. The highway, which serves as a major route connecting several communities and facilitating the movement of goods, became temporarily inaccessible.

The incident reportedly occurred just hours after suspected bandits abducted several motorists along the same axis, increasing fears among residents and road users about the growing insecurity in the region.

Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara State, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, stated that joint security operatives—including police and military tactical teams—were immediately deployed to the affected area. He revealed that Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units successfully detected and safely detonated multiple IEDs planted along the Kucheri–Danjibga–Keta axis.

Despite coming under attack during the operation, the security teams reportedly repelled the ambush and neutralized the threat. Their swift response ensured that the road was reopened, restoring normal traffic flow.

Authorities noted that the temporary closure of the highway had disrupted access to food supplies and other essential goods for residents. However, with the road now secured and movement restored, normal economic activities are gradually resuming.

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in parts of northwest Nigeria and the urgent need for sustained efforts to safeguard major transport routes and protect civilians.