A suspected suicide bomber unleashed terror in Maiduguri on Christmas Eve, detonating an explosive device inside a mosque and leaving many people feared dead.
Explosion During Evening Prayers
The attack occurred at approximately 6:00 PM on Tuesday, December 24, 2025. The bomber struck as Muslim worshippers were conducting their Maghrib (sunset) prayers at a mosque located within the bustling Gamboru Main Market in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
Initial reports indicate the assailant used an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The mosque is known to be heavily populated, especially at prayer times, attracting not only devoted worshippers but also traders and daily patrons of the adjacent market.
Scene of Chaos and Casualties
While an official casualty figure has not been released by authorities, early accounts from the scene suggest a significant number of fatalities and injuries. The force of the explosion caused panic and devastation in the market area.
The Borno State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident or the ongoing investigation. The lack of immediate official confirmation is common in the initial hours following such complex security incidents in the region.
A Grim Pattern in the Northeast
This attack echoes a tragic pattern of violence targeting soft spots, including places of worship and markets, in Nigeria's northeast. The use of suicide bombers and IEDs remains a persistent threat in areas affected by the long-running insurgency.
The incident on December 24 casts a shadow over the festive period and underscores the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Borno State. Residents await further details from security forces as emergency services respond to the aftermath of the blast.
