Several people are feared dead and others injured after an explosion struck a mosque in Nigeria’s Borno state, according to eyewitnesses.
The blast happened on Tuesday evening at the Gamboru market area of Maiduguri, the state capital, while worshippers were observing evening prayers. Residents reported that the explosion caused panic in the crowded market and the surrounding mosque area.
One local report suggested that at least seven people may have been killed, but Nigerian authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties. Emergency services were seen moving through the area shortly after the incident.
Unverified videos show chaotic aftermath
Videos circulating on social media, which have not been independently verified, appear to show the immediate aftermath of the explosion. The footage shows people standing around damaged areas of the market, with dust still hanging in the air and others rushing to help the injured.
Local residents said the explosion was loud and sent people running for safety. Some eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion as worshippers and traders tried to understand what had happened.
As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Nigerian security agencies have not released an official statement on the cause of the explosion.
History of militant attacks in Maiduguri
Maiduguri has been at the centre of a long-running insurgency led by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram, along with its offshoot, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The armed conflict began in 2009, when Boko Haram launched an uprising aimed at creating an Islamic caliphate in Borno state. Since then, the group has carried out numerous attacks across north-east Nigeria, targeting civilians, security forces, markets and places of worship.
Militants operating in the region have previously carried out suicide bombings and improvised explosive device (IED) attacks, including strikes on mosques and other crowded locations.
Despite ongoing military operations and increased security measures, sporadic attacks continue to occur in parts of Borno and neighbouring states. Civilians remain particularly vulnerable, especially in busy public spaces such as markets and religious centres.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations into the Maiduguri explosion continue.