At least five people were killed and 35 others injured when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive inside a mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria’s Borno State, during evening prayers on Wednesday.
The explosion occurred around 6 pm Nigeria time as worshippers had gathered for prayers.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, describing it as “utterly reprehensible, brutal and inhumane.”
He urged caution in places of worship and public areas during the festive season, noting that attacking a place of worship violates its sanctity.
He extended condolences to the victims’ families and prayed for the recovery of the injured.
Police confirmed the casualties and reported that bomb disposal teams had secured the area.
Continuous sweeps are ongoing to ensure no additional threats remain, according to Borno State Command spokesman Kenneth Daso.
Authorities have called on residents to remain calm and vigilant as investigations continue.
