A powerful explosion tore through a busy mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria’s troubled Borno State, on Wednesday evening as worshippers gathered for their Maghrib prayers, leaving a number of people dead and many more injured.
According to police, the blast was caused by a suspected improvised explosive device detonated at approximately 6.15 pm at the Al-Adun Jumaat Mosque in the bustling Gamboru Main Market area. Initial reports from security authorities confirm that five worshippers were killed on the spot and around 35 others sustained various injuries. The injured have been taken to local hospitals, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, for urgent treatment.
Security operatives, including Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams, were quickly deployed to cordon off the scene and ensure that no additional devices were planted, as families and residents struggled to come to terms with the carnage.
The gathering at the mosque drew a large crowd of traders, shoppers and faithful observing their evening devotions, making the timing of the attack particularly devastating. Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the explosion reverberated through the market district just hours before Christmas Day.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack in strong terms, calling for heightened vigilance and additional security measures at places of worship and other public sites during the festive period. His office expressed condolences to the families of the victims and urged the public to remain calm while authorities continue their investigation.
No group has yet claimed responsibility, but attacks of this nature have historically been linked to insurgent groups active in the region. The blast underscores ongoing security challenges in the northeast, despite efforts by Nigerian forces to quell militant activity.
