Army Identifies Boko Haram as Perpetrators of Maiduguri Mosque Bombing
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that Boko Haram insurgents carried out the bomb attack at the Gamboru Juma’at Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, which left several worshippers dead and many others injured.
The confirmation was made on Thursday by the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai after preliminary investigations into the explosion that occurred during Maghrib prayers on Wednesday evening.
In a statement released by the Theatre Command spokesperson, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the military said evidence gathered indicated that the attack was executed by elements of the Boko Haram terrorist group.
According to the statement, victims of the blast were swiftly evacuated to the Maiduguri General Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment.
Uba disclosed that no fewer than 32 civilians sustained injuries of varying severity as a result of the incident.
He explained that initial findings pointed to a suicide attack, noting that a suspected Boko Haram bomber detonated an improvised explosive device at the mosque, killing himself and two worshippers instantly.
Uba further revealed that two of those who were injured later died while receiving medical care, while two others remain in critical condition. He added that the remaining victims are currently stable and undergoing treatment.
The military said troops, working alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency, quickly moved to the scene to secure the area and prevent further casualties.
Reassuring residents of Maiduguri and neighbouring communities, the army stated that security has been tightened across the city, especially during the festive period. Surveillance and patrols, according to the command, have been intensified to forestall further attacks.
The military reaffirmed its resolve to sustain counterterrorism operations and ensure the protection of lives and property across the North-East region.
