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The Borno State Police Command has intensified security operations across Maiduguri and other key areas of the state, deploying more than 1,000 police officers ahead of Christmas celebrations, following a deadly bomb explosion at a mosque that claimed five lives and left at least 35 others injured.
The blast occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, while worshippers were gathered for evening prayers.
Confirming the development in an interview on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Nahum Daso, said the incident prompted an expansion of existing security measures to prevent further attacks and reassure residents during the festive period.
“Although security arrangements were already in place, what happened yesterday has made it necessary to intensify our operations,” Daso said.
“There will be full deployment of security personnel to churches, recreational centres, and other strategic locations where large gatherings are expected.”
He explained that the operation is being carried out jointly by the police and other security and emergency response agencies, with officers positioned at major roads, flashpoints, and public facilities across Maiduguri.
“It is a coordinated effort involving all relevant security agencies,” Daso added. “Over 1,000 police personnel have been deployed within the metropolis to ensure public safety.”
The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm and go about their lawful activities while maintaining a high level of vigilance, stressing the importance of promptly reporting suspicious movements or individuals.
“We advise members of the public to be mindful of their surroundings and make use of designated emergency response numbers,” he said. “Anyone observed acting suspiciously should be reported immediately.”
Daso also disclosed that enhanced screening measures have been introduced at places of worship, noting that worshippers would be subjected to security checks before gaining access to churches and mosques.
“As part of the preventive measures, individuals attending religious services will be properly screened, both in churches and mosques,” he said.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has condemned the attack, describing it as a “barbaric and inhumane act” that desecrated a place of worship.
In a statement issued Wednesday night by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed grief over the loss of lives and called for heightened vigilance, especially at religious centres during the festive season.
“I am deeply saddened by the suicide attack at the Gamboru mosque during Maghrib prayers, which claimed five lives and injured 35 others,” Zulum said. “This act is utterly condemnable and a gross violation of the sanctity of a place of worship.”
The governor extended condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured, assuring residents that additional measures had been put in place to prevent further security breaches during and beyond the Christmas period.
Christmas: Borno Police deploy over 1,000 officers after deadly Mosque blast
