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Bomb blast kills five at mosque in Nigeria's Borno state
At least five people died and 35 others sustained injuries when a bomb exploded inside a crowded mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria's north-eastern Borno state, police confirmed on Thursday.
Attack details
The blast occurred during evening prayers in the Gamboru market area of Maiduguri, according to Nahum Daso, a police spokesman. He told local media that the explosion targeted worshippers gathered inside the mosque.
Unverified videos circulating on social media show the immediate aftermath, with dust-filled air and people standing in the market area near the site of the blast.
No claim of responsibility
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. However, militant groups have a history of targeting mosques and busy public spaces in the region using suicide bombings and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Background of violence in Maiduguri
Maiduguri has been a focal point of an ongoing insurgency led by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram and its offshoot, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The groups have waged a campaign since 2009 to establish an Islamic caliphate in Borno state.
Despite security measures, sporadic attacks on civilians in north-east Nigeria have persisted, often targeting places of worship and markets.
Response and next steps
Authorities have not yet released further details about the investigation or potential suspects. Security forces are expected to increase patrols in the area following the incident.
