Five killed as Zulum slams Maiduguri Mosque suicide attack

By Hamza Suleiman

Governor Babagana Zulum has strongly condemned the suicide attack on a mosque in Maiduguri that claimed five lives and left at least 35 worshippers injured, describing the incident as barbaric and a grave assault on religious sanctity.

The attack occurred on Wednesday evening at a mosque in the Gomboru Market area of the Maiduguri metropolis while Muslim faithful were observing Maghrib prayers.

According to the Borno State Government, a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque and detonated an explosive device during the congregational worship.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Zulum expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which he said targeted innocent worshippers in a place meant for peace and spiritual reflection.

“I am deeply saddened by the Gomboru mosque suicide attack which occurred on Wednesday evening when worshippers were performing Maghrib prayer, killing five people and injuring 35 others,” the governor said.

“The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane.”

Zulum stressed that attacking a place of worship amounted to a desecration of its sanctity, especially at a time when worshippers were engaged in prayers.

He extended condolences to families of the victims and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

“I wish to express my condolences to the families of all those that lost their lives in the attack and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” he added.

Speaking from the frontline in northern Borno, the governor urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies, particularly during the festive period when public places often record increased human traffic.

He also called for heightened security around mosques, markets and other public spaces, assuring residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, has strengthened measures to prevent further attacks.

Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to safeguard lives and property, noting that proactive security arrangements had been put in place not only for the festive season but also beyond.

The attack has once again underscored lingering security challenges in parts of Borno State, despite sustained military operations against insurgent groups in the region.