Borno-map
Picnews
A bomb blast rocked a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Christmas Eve, killing at least 5 people and injuring over 35 others. The explosion occurred during evening prayers at the Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque in the Gamboru Market area, with witnesses describing it as a suspected suicide bombing.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Borno State, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the casualty figures, stating that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause and circumstances of the attack. Security agencies have cordoned off the area, and bomb disposal teams are conducting sweep operations.
The attack is believed to be linked to Boko Haram or its splinter group, Islamic State West Africa Province, which have been responsible for similar attacks in the past. The region has experienced relative calm in recent years, but concerns are growing about a resurgence of violence.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, calling it “utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane”. He urged heightened vigilance in places of worship and public spaces during the festive season.
The incident has heightened anxiety among residents of Maiduguri, particularly as religious activities increase ahead of Christmas celebrations. Security forces have been put on high alert to prevent follow-up attacks.
The Nigerian government has been battling Boko Haram insurgency since 2009, with the conflict claiming thousands of lives and displacing millions.
