SUNTV GLOBAL CHANNEL | News Report
Security has been significantly tightened across Borno State following a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Maiduguri that claimed at least five lives and left dozens injured.
SUNTV Global Channel reports that security operatives have commenced mandatory screening of worshippers at churches and mosques across Maiduguri and other strategic locations in the state, as authorities move to prevent further attacks during the festive season.
The explosion occurred at about 6:00pm on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque, located within Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, while worshippers were gathered for Maghrib prayers. The attacker reportedly detonated an improvised explosive device inside the mosque, killing five people instantly and injuring no fewer than 35 others.
Confirming the development, the Borno State Police Command said over 1,000 security personnel have been deployed across Maiduguri and surrounding areas. The Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, told journalists that the move followed a review of existing security measures in the wake of the attack.
According to him, police officers and other security agencies are now stationed at churches, mosques, recreational centres, and other public places expected to attract large crowds. Worshippers will be subjected to thorough security checks before being allowed entry.
“The affected area was immediately cordoned off to ensure public safety and allow emergency operations,” Daso said. “There will be full domination of security personnel at churches, recreational centres, and other strategic locations. This is a joint operation involving the police and all relevant security and emergency response agencies.”
He added that although security arrangements were already in place before the incident, they have now been intensified.
“In terms of clearance, anyone going to a church or mosque must be properly screened. This applies to all places of worship,” he stated.
The police also urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, advising members of the public to report any suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies using designated emergency numbers.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane.”
In a statement issued Wednesday night through his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor said the attack amounted to a desecration of the sanctity of a place of worship.
“I am deeply saddened by the Gamboru mosque suicide attack which occurred while worshippers were performing Maghrib prayers,” the governor said, while assuring residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to prevent further attacks during Christmas and beyond.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring verified updates as security operations unfold across Borno State.
