UPDATED: At least five worshippers dead, 20 others wounded in Maiduguri suicide attack

At least five worshippers were killed and 35 others injured on Christmas Eve after a suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive device during congregational prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The explosion occurred at the Al-Alim Mosque in Gomboru Market during Maghrib prayers. Witnesses said the attacker, later confirmed to be a young boy, infiltrated the mosque disguised as a worshipper.

The bomber reportedly detonated the device while worshippers were in prostration, killing himself and several others instantly.

While confirming the casualty figures, Surajo Garba Abdullahi, coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for Borno and Yobe states, said five persons were killed, while 35 worshippers sustained critical injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the Borno State Specialist Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

He said, “It is a sad development. Five persons, including the bomber, lost their lives, while 35 others sustained varying degrees of injuries. We visited the scene of the suicide attack alongside the Red Cross, the Garrison Commander of 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, and other stakeholders,” Abdullahi disclosed in a phone interview.

Hospital sources said the death toll could rise, as some victims remain in critical condition. Family members of the victims were seen at the hospitals seeking information about their loved ones.

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Confirming the incident, the Borno State Police Command said security operations were ongoing in the area.

The police spokesperson, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams had cordoned off the location to ensure public safety.

“Ongoing sweeping operations by police EOD personnel following a suspected explosion incident recorded at Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque in Gamboru Market today at about 1800 hours during prayers,” Daso said.

“The area has been secured while investigations are ongoing. Further updates will be communicated.”

Police advised residents to remain calm and vigilant as security agencies continue their operations.

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