Explosion Hits Mosque in Maiduguri During Evening Prayers, Casualties Feared
An explosion struck a mosque within the Gamboru Main Market area of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Wednesday evening, sending shockwaves through the busy commercial district and causing panic among worshippers and residents.
The blast occurred at about 6:10 p.m. while Muslim faithful were observing the Maghrib prayer. According to eyewitness accounts, the explosion originated from within the mosque premises, forcing worshippers to flee in different directions as smoke and debris filled the area. Residents described moments of confusion and fear as people struggled to understand what had happened.
Security sources said the incident is suspected to have been caused by an Improvised Explosive Device planted inside the mosque. Police authorities later confirmed the explosion and disclosed that operatives were immediately deployed to the scene to secure the area and prevent further threats. According to the Borno State Police Command, explosive ordnance experts were mobilized to conduct a technical sweep and determine the exact nature of the device used.
Initial casualty figures remain unclear. However, early reports from emergency responders and eyewitnesses indicated that several worshippers were killed, while dozens sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured victims were reportedly taken to nearby hospitals in Maiduguri for urgent medical attention, according to hospital sources and emergency officials on ground.
The mosque is located close to Gamboru Main Market, one of Maiduguri’s busiest trading hubs, making the incident particularly alarming for residents and traders who rely on the area for daily economic activities. Community members expressed concern over the continued vulnerability of civilian locations, especially places of worship, despite ongoing security operations in the state.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as of the time of filing this report. However, security analysts noted that Borno State has remained a target of insurgent violence over the years. According to security observers, attacks involving IEDs have previously been used to target crowded public spaces in the region.
Political and civil society groups have condemned the incident, describing it as a brutal assault on innocent worshippers. The Peoples Democratic Party, according to party officials, called on the federal government to strengthen intelligence gathering and security presence around religious centers, particularly during festive and prayer periods.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm but vigilant and to report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies. Investigations into the incident are ongoing as security forces continue efforts to restore confidence and ensure the safety of residents across Maiduguri.

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