Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has condemned the suicide bomb attack at Gomboru market mosque in Maiduguri metropolis on Wednesday evening, describing it as inhumane and barbaric.
had reported that a suspected bomb detonated while worshippers were performing the Maghrib prayer at Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque, killing five people and injuring 35 others.
Zulum, conveying his condolences in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, on Wednesday night, called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship during the festive period.
The governor said, “I am deeply saddened by the Gamboru mosque suicide attack which occurred on Wednesday evening when worshippers were performing Maghrib prayer, killing 5 people and injuring 35 others.
“The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane.”
He added, “Attacking a place of worship is a desecration of the sanctity of the mosque at a time when Muslim faithful are performing acts of worship.”
“I wish to express my condolences to the families of all those that lost their lives in the attack and pray for the repose of their souls, and for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
The governor assured that adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach during the festive period and beyond.
online had earlier reported that operatives of the Borno State Police Command have cordoned the area and assured residents of safety.
In a brief statement earlier, the spokesperson of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, called for calm.
The statement reads, “Ongoing sweeping operations by police EOD as suspected explosion incident recorded at Al-Adum Jumaat mosque in Gamboru Market today at about 1800HRS during prayers.”
He added, “Police EOD personnel have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety, while investigations are ongoing.
He assured that further updates will be communicated soon.
“Members of the public are advised to remain calm and vigilant as security operations are ongoing.”