A tragic incident unfolded in Maiduguri, Borno State, when an explosive device detonated inside a mosque, resulting in the deaths of several worshippers and leaving many others injured. The blast, which occurred on Wednesday around 6:00 p.m. during Maghrib prayers at a Juma’at mosque in the Gamboru Ward (also referred to as Gamborun Market) area, plunged the densely populated market into panic and confusion.

Eyewitnesses recounted to Zagazola Malala how the explosion ripped through a section of the mosque, causing instantaneous fatalities and various degrees of injuries among those observing their evening prayers. Thick smoke billowed from the mosque, prompting traders and residents to flee the scene, while some courageous individuals attempted to rescue victims before emergency responders could arrive. Security operatives swiftly cordoned off the area to manage the situation, prevent further casualties, and facilitate a preliminary assessment of the incident.

As of the time of reporting, authorities had not officially confirmed the exact number of casualties. The police spokesperson in Borno, Nahum Daso, could not be immediately reached for official confirmation, failing to respond to calls or text messages. Investigations into the precise cause of the explosion are currently ongoing.

In response to the tragedy, Shehu Sani, a prominent figure, condemned the bombing, describing it as the "evil horror of terrorism" and a "tragic event." Posting on X, he stated that such an "abominable act once again reflects the evil and horrors of terrorism and the dangers it poses to all citizens irrespective of their identities and affiliations," extending his thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families.

Terrorists, suspected to be Boko Haram insurgents, are believed to be responsible for detonating the improvised explosive device (IED). Previous bombings in Maiduguri and other parts of Borno state have frequently been linked to Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). This attack also comes just a week after the Nigerian Air Force bombed civilians in Kukawa LGA, an incident for which the air forces have neither acknowledged nor responded to inquiries.