Several worshippers have been feared dead following an explosion at a mosque in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Wednesday evening.
The blast occurred at the Gambarou Jumu’at Mosque, located within Gamborun Market, during the Maghrib congregational prayer.
Reports indicate that an improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated inside the mosque while worshippers were observing the first raka’at of the prayer.
Eyewitnesses said the attacker reportedly sneaked into the mosque before setting off the explosive, causing panic and heavy casualties.
“The bomber detonated when the first raka’at of the Maghrib prayer was observed. Many worshippers died, while others sustained various injuries,” an eyewitness said.
Confirming the incident to newsmen, the Borno State Police Command’s spokesman, DSP Nahum Daso, said the explosion was perfected by a suspected suicide bomber at 6:15 p.m.
“Preliminary investigation indicates that the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber who struck during Magrib prayers,” he said.
According to him, the blast killed some worshippers on the spot and left many others with varying degrees of injuries.
He said the injured victims were immediately evacuated to the University of Maiduguri Teaching hospital for medical attention.
The spokesman stated that men from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and other security agencies were deployed to the scene to secure the area and rule out the presence of additional explosive devices.
Daso added that the area was cordoned off as a joint team of security agencies commenced a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.
He urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or persons to security agencies.
However, those wounded were said to have been rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
Security operatives have cordoned off the area, while emergency responders continue rescue and evacuation efforts.
See video below