Explosion at mosque in northeastern Nigeria leaves dead and injured

Explosion inside mosque in Maiduguri during evening prayers

An explosion tore through a mosque in northeastern Nigeria on Tuesday evening, killing at least five people and injuring at least 35 others, local police said. The blast occurred during Maghrib prayers inside a mosque in the city of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state.

Investigation underway into northeastern Nigeria mosque blast

Preliminary findings indicate the attack may have been a suicide bombing after fragments believed to be from an explosive belt were recovered at the scene, according to Reuters. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The blast took place in a region that has faced years of repeated attacks by armed groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State – West Africa Province. The groups have frequently targeted markets, places of worship and other civilian gathering points.

Security tightened after Maiduguri mosque attack

Local authorities urged increased vigilance at mosques and public spaces, particularly as travel rises during the holiday season. Security forces have expanded their presence across Maiduguri and nearby areas to deter further attacks.

The explosion underscores the persistent security challenges in northeastern Nigeria, despite ongoing military operations by the government against insurgent groaups in the region.