An explosion and gunfire rocked the convoy of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Borno State, as suspected terrorists attacked the campaign team along the Gubio–Kareto–Damasak highway.

The candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, was returning yesterday to Maiduguri after a thank-you visit to Damasak when the convoy came under attack.

A police armoured vehicle reportedly leading the convoy triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along the highway, causing a powerful blast that severely damaged the vehicle.

The explosion was followed by gunfire as the suspected insurgents attempted to ambush the convoy.

Security personnel attached to the convoy, including soldiers, police operatives and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), reportedly engaged the attackers and forced them to retreat into the surrounding bush.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, confirmed that tactical operatives countered the attack involving an IED and rocket-propelled grenades.

He said security personnel subsequently conducted a clearance operation around the area to guard against secondary explosives.

The convoy was later evacuated to a secure location, with Gubio and other members of the entourage reportedly escaping unhurt.

No casualty was immediately reported among members of the convoy, although the police armoured vehicle sustained extensive damage in the blast.

The attack has raised fresh concerns over security along the Gubio–Kareto–Damasak corridor, one of the routes in northern Borno that has remained vulnerable to insurgent attacks.

Although initial reports attributed the attack to Boko Haram, security authorities have so far described the assailants only as suspected terrorists. The specific faction responsible has yet to be independently established.

The incident also comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, raising fresh concerns about the safety of political campaigns and movements in parts of the state.