By Francis Ajuonuma
No fewer than five worshippers lost their lives. In contrast, over 20 others sustained injuries on Christmas Eve when a suspected suicide attacker set off an explosive during prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The blast took place at the Al-Alim Mosque, located within Gomboru Market, at the time of Maghrib prayers.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the assailant, later identified as a young boy, gained access to the mosque by posing as one of the faithful.
According to accounts from the scene, the explosive was triggered while worshippers were in the act of prostration, leading to the immediate death of the attacker and several congregants.
Emergency responders confirmed that at least 22 people suffered severe injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at the Borno State Specialist Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Others with less critical injuries were evacuated to the General Mohammed Shuwa Hospital and additional health facilities across Maiduguri.
Medical sources warned that the casualty figure may increase, noting that some of the injured remain in critical condition. Relatives of victims were observed thronging hospitals in search of updates on their loved ones.
The Borno State Police Command later acknowledged the incident, stating that security measures had been intensified in the area.
The police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams had cordoned off the location to ensure public safety.
“Ongoing sweeping operations by police EOD personnel following a suspected explosion incident recorded at Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque in Gamboru Market today at about 1800 hours during prayers,” Daso said.
“The area has been secured while investigations are ongoing. Further updates will be communicated.”
