An explosion tore through a mosque during evening prayers on Wednesday, abruptly ending worship and plunging the surrounding community into fear as worshippers scrambled for safety amid smoke, debris and distress.
Initial accounts from residents indicate that the detonation happened without warning, triggering panic inside and around the mosque.
Furthermore, several people were reportedly injured as worshippers attempted to flee, while others rushed to assist those who had fallen or were wounded in the confusion.
Subsequently, security officials confirmed that the incident occurred on December 24, 2025, in the Gamboru axis of Maiduguri, Borno State.
Emergency responders, supported by security operatives, quickly secured the area and conveyed victims to hospitals for medical attention.
A local trader who was nearby at the time of the blast said the sound was deafening and sent shockwaves across the neighbourhood.
“We heard a loud explosion and people started shouting. Within minutes, security personnel arrived and blocked the road,” he said.
Meanwhile, preliminary security assessments pointed to the possibility of an improvised explosive device, although authorities stressed that investigations were still at an early stage.
Hence, residents have been advised to avoid the area as forensic teams continue their work.
As of press time, official figures on casualties had yet to be released. However, sources at medical facilities disclosed that several victims were undergoing treatment, with some admitted in critical condition.
Notably, no individual or group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Nevertheless, the explosion has renewed concerns over public safety in Maiduguri, a city that has long grappled with insurgency-related violence targeting civilian locations, including places of worship.
In response, security agencies said patrols had been intensified across key parts of the city to forestall further incidents.
Authorities assured residents that updates would be communicated as investigations progress and more information becomes available.