Five worshippers have been confirmed dead and at least 35 others injured following a suicide bombing at a mosque in Gamborun Market, Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The Borno State Police Command said the attack occurred when a suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque during prayers and detonated an improvised explosive device, causing casualties among worshippers inside the premises.
Nahum Daso, the police spokesperson in the state, confirmed the figures in a statement, noting that the injured victims were immediately evacuated to hospitals across Maiduguri, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
According to him, operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit were swiftly deployed to the scene, alongside other security agencies. The team cordoned off the area and carried out a thorough sweep of the vicinity to rule out the presence of secondary explosive devices and prevent further harm to residents.
Daso added that the area has since been secured, while investigations have commenced to determine the identity of the attacker and possible links to terror networks operating in the region.
The attack has heightened concerns over security in Maiduguri, a city that has endured years of insurgent violence. Residents described scenes of panic and confusion as worshippers and traders fled the market area following the explosion.
The police command appealed to members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, and urged anyone with useful information to report to the nearest security post. Authorities also reiterated their commitment to sustaining efforts to protect lives and property across the state.
As of the time of this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
