A suspected suicide bomber reportedly infiltrated the mosque at the height of the prayers, turning a sacred moment of devotion into a scene of grief and anguish.
The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide attack at the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing it as a “barbaric, dastardly and cowardly act” aimed at instilling fear and undermining peace.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, claimed the lives of five worshippers and left at least 35 others injured.
A suspected suicide bomber reportedly infiltrated the mosque at the height of the prayers, turning a sacred moment of devotion into a scene of grief and anguish.
The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement issued by his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, expressed profound sorrow over the incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as to the families of the victims and those injured in the attack.
The forum described the targeting of a place of worship as a grave violation of human conscience and religious sanctity, stressing that such acts only reinforce the resolve of the region to stand united against terrorism and violent extremism.
The governors charged security agencies and government officials in Borno State not to despair or yield to intimidation, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division.
They urged the agencies to remain steadfast and resolute in the ongoing efforts to phase out terrorism and restore lasting peace to the region.
Governor Yahaya further called for enhanced security measures, particularly around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods when large gatherings are common.
The Gombe governor assured the people of Borno State of the solidarity and full support of the Northern Governors Forum as security agencies intensify efforts to prevent further attacks.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grants eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus to the souls of those who lost their lives, comforts their families, and grants speedy recovery to the injured.
He also prayed for continued strength and wisdom for the leadership of Borno State as it confronts security challenges with courage and resilience.
The governor reiterated the collective determination of Northern states to work together in support of peace, security and the protection of innocent lives, stressing that acts of terror would not break the spirit or unity of the region.
Meanwhile, the forum also expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji.
On behalf of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, particularly Governor Abba Yusuf, the leadership and members of the Kano State House of Assembly, as well as the families, colleagues and constituents of the deceased lawmakers.
He described the deaths of the two legislators as a painful loss not only to Kano State but to democratic governance, noting that both men served their constituencies, state and the nation with commitment, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus and give their families, colleagues and the people of Kano State the fortitude to bear the huge losses.