Post by : Meena Ariff

At least five people were killed and dozens more injured after a bomb exploded inside a mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria’s north-eastern Borno state, during evening prayers. The attack occurred at a time when the mosque was filled with worshippers, leading to significant casualties and widespread panic.

The explosion took place at a mosque located in the crowded Gamboru Market area, one of the busiest commercial hubs in Maiduguri. According to police officials, around 35 people were injured in the blast, with several victims reported to be in serious or critical condition. Emergency services rushed the injured to nearby hospitals, where doctors continue to provide treatment.

Following the explosion, security forces immediately cordoned off the affected area to prevent further casualties and allow rescue teams to operate safely. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, saying loud cries followed the blast as dust and smoke engulfed the market and mosque area, reducing visibility and causing confusion among residents and traders nearby.

Unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show the aftermath of the explosion, including damaged structures, scattered debris, and people standing in shock amid the dust-filled air. Authorities have urged the public to avoid spreading unconfirmed footage while investigations are ongoing.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, the region has experienced similar incidents in the past. Armed militant groups active in north-east Nigeria have frequently targeted places of worship, markets, and other crowded public locations using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices.

Maiduguri has remained at the centre of a prolonged insurgency led by the Islamist group Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province. The conflict dates back to 2009, when Boko Haram launched a violent campaign aimed at establishing an Islamic caliphate in Borno state.

Despite years of military operations and increased security deployments, sporadic attacks against civilians continue to occur across the region. In response to the latest bombing, security has been further tightened across Maiduguri, particularly around mosques and market areas. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to identify those responsible and to prevent further attacks, as residents once again face the impact of ongoing insecurity in the region.

#Global News