The Nigerian Army has revealed that the suicide attack at a mosque in Gamboru market, Maiduguri, was carried out by the Boko Haram.
The explosion occurred at about 6pm on Tuesday while Muslim worshippers were observing evening prayers within Maiduguri metropolitan council.
In a statement on Wednesday, Lt-Col Sani Uba, media information officer of Operation Hadin Kai, said preliminary findings identified the incident as a suicide bombing.
“Preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and two civilians on the scene,” Uba said.
He said troops, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police explosive ordnance disposal team, other security agencies, the Borno state government and the National Emergency Management Agency, responded promptly to the incident.
Uba said the affected area was secured and cordoned off to prevent further harm and ensure public safety.
He said casualties were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for medical attention.
According to him, 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries in the attack.
“Regrettably, two of the injured civilians were later confirmed dead at the hospital, while two others are currently in critical condition,” he said.
Uba added that the remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care, adding that troops and other security agencies have intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
Uba urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, especially during the yuletide season, and to promptly report suspicious persons or activities to security agencies.
The Army commiserated with the families of the deceased and assured the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
