Police Begin Screening Church and Mosque Worshippers in Borno After Maiduguri Suicide Bombing Kills Five, Injures Dozens

Security agencies in Borno State have intensified safety measures around places of worship following a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Maiduguri that claimed at least five lives and left dozens injured. The attack, which occurred around 6pm on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque in Gamboru Market during Maghrib prayers, prompted authorities to introduce mandatory screening of worshippers entering churches and mosques across the state.

According to reports, the Borno State Police Command has deployed more than 1,000 officers across Maiduguri and other strategic locations to ensure heightened security during the Christmas season and ongoing Muslim prayers. Police spokesperson Nahum Daso confirmed that security personnel have been stationed at churches, mosques, recreational centres and other crowded areas, with worshippers now required to undergo security checks before gaining entry.

Daso explained that although security arrangements were already in place prior to the attack, the latest incident forced law enforcement agencies to further strengthen their presence and operations. He noted that the affected area was immediately cordoned off after the explosion to protect the public and allow emergency responders to carry out their duties.

The police described the operation as a joint effort involving all security and emergency response teams, stressing that full security domination would be maintained across key locations. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, be cautious of their surroundings and promptly report suspicious activities or individuals using designated emergency numbers.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric, inhumane and a desecration of the sanctity of a place of worship. He expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries sustained by worshippers, assuring residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to prevent further attacks during the festive period and beyond.