Several worshippers were feared killed on Wednesday evening after an explosion ripped through a mosque at the busy Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The blast, which occurred at about 6:15pm during Magrib prayers, threw the area into panic as injured worshippers lay on the ground while residents fled the scene.
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying preliminary investigations indicated that the explosion was caused by a suspected suicide bomber.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Nahum Daso, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Maiduguri that the attacker struck while Muslim faithful were observing congregational prayers inside the mosque.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber who detonated an Improvised Explosive Device during Magrib prayers,” Daso said.
He added that some worshippers died instantly, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
According to him, the injured victims were immediately evacuated to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.
Daso said operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, alongside other security agencies, were deployed to the scene to secure the area and rule out the presence of additional explosive devices.
He noted that the affected area was cordoned off as a joint security team commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and those responsible.
The police spokesman urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and to report any suspicious movements or persons to security agencies.
Gamboru Market is one of Maiduguri’s busiest commercial hubs and is usually crowded during evening prayers, raising fears that the casualty figure could rise.
(NAN)
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
