He detailed the attacks, characterised by Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs), commonly known as suicide bombings.
The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has described the recent bombings in Borno State as a stark indication of Nigeria slipping into a state of war.
Speaking on Tuesday, Major General Edward Buba, the DHQ spokesperson recounted the tragic events in Gworza Local Government Area over the weekend, attributing the attacks to retaliatory measures following recent military successes against terrorist factions.
"The despicable bombings are a direct response to our significant strides in dismantling terrorist leadership and depleting their resources," General Buba asserted.
He detailed the attacks, characterised by Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs), commonly known as suicide bombings.
The first explosion occurred around 3pm at a wedding reception on Mararaba Hausari Street, perpetrated by a female suicide bomber disguised as a beggar.
Shortly after, at 5pm, another female suicide bomber struck nearby as medical teams attended to casualties from the initial blast.
In response to the escalating threat, troops swiftly enforced a curfew to safeguard civilians. Despite these measures, a third explosion targeted enforcing troops, resulting in casualties including a soldier and two hybrid forces personnel. Fortunately, a fourth attack was preemptively thwarted, sparing further tragedy.
General Buba lamented the loss of 20 lives and injuries to 52 others, stressing the profound impact on society and the nation.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences and solidarity to all affected," he added.
The DHQ said it condemned the cowardly tactics employed by terrorists, aiming to sow fear and undermine societal stability. General Buba urged citizens to discern the true motives behind such attacks and stand united against terrorism's destabilizing agenda.
"In this critical phase, terrorists seek to regain relevance and disrupt our peace," General Buba cautioned. He called upon citizens to remain vigilant and support ongoing military efforts, emphasizing the military's unwavering commitment to neutralizing terrorist threats.
"The fate awaiting these terrorists will be swift and decisive," General Buba concluded, affirming the military's resolute stance against terrorism and commitment to securing a peaceful future for all Nigerians.
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that a Nigerian Army soldier was among the persons killed when two suicide bombers detonated an improvised explosive device (IED).