(DDM) – An explosion has rocked a mosque located at Gamboru Main Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, causing panic among worshippers and nearby residents.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, during a period of worship at the mosque, sending shockwaves through the community.
Security sources confirmed that the blast was caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) suspected to have been planted inside the mosque premises.
Eyewitnesses said worshippers were present when the explosion occurred, forcing an immediate evacuation of the area as panic ensued.
The explosion prompted a swift response from security agencies, who cordoned off the location to prevent further incidents.
Emergency responders, including medical teams and fire services, were deployed to assist victims and secure the scene.
Authorities are currently conducting investigations to determine the number of casualties and identify the perpetrators behind the attack.
Residents of the area have been urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and cooperate with security personnel during the ongoing probe.
The Gamboru Main Market area, where the mosque is located, has in the past been a flashpoint for insurgent activities, making security patrols a critical necessity.
Analysts say attacks on places of worship in Borno State remain a strategy by insurgent groups to instil fear and disrupt community life.
Security operatives continue to conduct searches around Maiduguri and neighbouring communities to track down those responsible for the IED attack.
Authorities emphasised that the safety of civilians is their top priority and that preventive measures are being intensified.
Residents described the explosion as terrifying, noting that the loud blast shattered nearby windows and caused chaos among shoppers and worshippers alike.
Local community leaders have called for increased vigilance and collaboration between citizens and security agencies to prevent similar incidents.
Officials are also reviewing surveillance and intelligence reports to understand how the explosive device was planted within the mosque.
The Federal Government has consistently vowed to clamp down on terrorist networks operating in the North-East, including Borno State.
The incident at Gamboru Main Market is one of several security challenges that have plagued Maiduguri, highlighting the ongoing threat from insurgent groups.
Security experts note that IED attacks are often designed to target crowded spaces, maximise casualties, and create fear among residents.
Authorities have promised that all necessary measures will be taken to apprehend the attackers and bring them to justice.
The Nigerian military and police have stepped up patrols and checkpoints across Maiduguri to prevent further incidents.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities or items to security agencies immediately.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates on casualties and arrests are expected to be released as authorities gather more information.
The community remains on high alert, with emergency response teams monitoring the situation closely to prevent secondary attacks.