The Northern States Governors’ Forum, under the leadership of Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has vehemently condemned the recent suicide attack that occurred at the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State. The Forum characterized the incident, which transpired on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, as a “barbaric, dastardly and cowardly act” explicitly designed to sow fear and undermine the prevailing peace in the region. The tragic attack resulted in the loss of five worshippers’ lives and left at least 32 others injured, transforming a sacred moment of communal devotion into a scene of profound grief and anguish.

Governor Yahaya, through a statement issued by his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, conveyed the Forum’s deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences. These condolences were directed towards the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as to the families of the victims who perished and those who sustained injuries in the blast. The governors underscored that the deliberate targeting of a place of worship constitutes a grave violation of human conscience and religious sanctity. They stressed that such heinous acts, far from achieving their nefarious goals, only serve to strengthen the region's collective resolve to stand united against the forces of terrorism and violent extremism.

The Forum urged security agencies and government officials within Borno State to remain resolute and not to yield to intimidation, reiterating the principle that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called upon these agencies to maintain steadfastness in their ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism and restore lasting peace and stability to the region. Furthermore, Governor Yahaya specifically called for the implementation of enhanced security measures, particularly around places of worship and other public spaces where large gatherings are common, especially during festive periods. He reaffirmed the unwavering solidarity and full support of the Northern Governors Forum to the people of Borno State as security agencies intensify their efforts to prevent any future attacks. The governor concluded by offering prayers for the eternal rest of the souls lost in the attack, comfort for their grieving families, and speedy recovery for the injured. He also prayed for continued strength and wisdom for the leadership of Borno State as they courageously confront ongoing security challenges, reiterating the collective determination of Northern states to collaboratively work towards peace, security, and the protection of innocent lives, emphasizing that acts of terror will not diminish the spirit or unity of the region.

Separately, the Nigerian Army officially confirmed on Thursday that Boko Haram insurgents were indeed responsible for the deadly bomb blast at the Gamboru Juma’at Mosque. The headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai provided this confirmation following thorough investigations into the attack. According to the Theatre Command spokesman, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device. Initially, the bomber and two civilians were killed at the scene. Subsequently, two more injured civilians tragically succumbed to their injuries at the hospital, bringing the total civilian death toll to five. A total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries, with two individuals currently in critical condition, while the remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care at the General Hospital and Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri.

Lt. Col. Uba assured the residents of Maiduguri and its environs of their safety, particularly during the festive season, stating that troops, in conjunction with other security agencies, have intensified surveillance and security operations across the city and surrounding areas. He highlighted the prompt response from various entities, including troops, the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other sister security agencies, the Borno State Government, and NEMA, who swiftly secured and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety.

In an additional note, the Northern States Governors’ Forum also conveyed its deep sorrow over the passing of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji. On behalf of the Forum, Governor Yahaya extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, particularly Governor Abba Yusuf, the leadership and members of the Kano State House of Assembly, as well as the families, colleagues, and constituents of the deceased lawmakers. He described the deaths of these two legislators as a painful loss not only for Kano State but also for democratic governance, acknowledging that both men had served their constituencies, state, and the nation with remarkable commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of responsibility.