The Nigerian Army has provided new details on the deadly explosion that struck a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Wednesday, confirming that the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber.
At least five people were killed and 35 others injured when the blast occurred at Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque, located in the Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, during the evening Maghrib prayer.
Speaking on Thursday, Captain Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), said preliminary investigations indicated that the attack was perpetrated by a terrorist who detonated an improvised explosive device.
“Initial findings indicate that the incident was caused by a suspected terrorist suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and two civilians instantly,” Captain Uba said.
He added that troops from Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other security agencies, the Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), responded promptly to the attack.
“The affected area was immediately secured and cordoned off to prevent further harm and ensure public safety,” he said.
All casualties were evacuated to the General Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment. Captain Uba confirmed that 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries, with two of them later dying at the hospital, bringing the death toll to five.
“Two other injured civilians are currently in critical condition, while the remaining victims are stable and receiving appropriate medical care,” he said.
Assuring residents of their safety, Captain Uba said that troops and other security agencies have intensified surveillance and operations across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent further attacks.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies immediately.
