An explosion disrupted evening prayers on Wednesday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, after suspected Boko Haram insurgents detonated an improvised explosive device at a Juma’at Mosque in Gamboru Ward, near the Customs area.
The blast triggered panic among worshippers and raised fears of casualties, although authorities had yet to confirm the number of deaths or injuries as of the time of reporting.
The incident occurred at about 6:10 p.m. while Muslim faithful were observing the Maghrib prayer, a time when the mosque was crowded.
The explosion shattered the neighbourhood’s calm, forcing worshippers to flee in confusion as dust and debris filled the air.
A video obtained by NEWSNGR showed worshippers running for safety amid a thick cloud of dust, suggesting the suddenness and intensity of the blast.
The footage captured the immediate aftermath as people struggled to escape the area, underscoring the fear and uncertainty that followed the explosion.
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the incident and announced the commencement of security operations at the scene.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed the development in a post on the microblogging platform X, indicating that explosive ordnance disposal personnel had moved in to secure the area.
“Ongoing swiping by police EOD as a suspected explosion incident was recorded at Al-Adum Jumaat mosque in Gamboru Market today at about 1800HRS during prayers.
“Police EOD personnel have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety, while investigations are ongoing. Further updates will be communicated.
“Members of the public are advised to remain calm as security operations are ongoing and remain vigilant.”
Daso noted that security operatives had restricted movement around the mosque to prevent further harm and to allow specialists to assess the situation.
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