Borno Police Deploy Over 1,000 Officers as Security Tightened After Deadly Mosque Bombing Ahead of Christmas

The Borno State Police Command has intensified security across Maiduguri and other key locations, deploying over 1,000 officers to safeguard lives and property as Christians celebrate Christmas, following a deadly bomb blast that claimed five lives and injured 35 others.

The deployment comes barely 24 hours after a suspected suicide bombing rocked the Al-Adum Mosque in the Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri on Wednesday evening, triggering fresh security concerns in the state.

Heightened Security After Deadly Attack

Akahi News gathered that the explosion occurred around 6pm while Muslim worshippers were observing Maghrib prayers, throwing the community into panic and grief. The incident has since prompted a sweeping security response by law enforcement agencies.

Speaking exclusively to our correspondent on Thursday morning, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Borno State Command, Nahum Daso, confirmed that security measures had been significantly reinforced across the state.

According to him, the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, have deployed more than 1,000 personnel to strategic locations, including churches, mosques, recreational centres, and other public spaces where people are expected to gather during the festive period.

“There will be full domination of security personnel at churches, recreational centres, and strategic locations where people are massively going to. We are on standby,” Daso stated.

Joint Security Operation Across the State

Daso explained that although security arrangements were already in place before the attack, the incident necessitated a more aggressive and visible security posture.

“It is a joint operation between the police and all emergency and security response teams. The command has deployed over 1,000 personnel within Maiduguri,” he said.

He added that the command has intensified surveillance and patrols to deter further attacks, reassuring residents that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to respond to any threat.

Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

The police spokesperson also urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, encouraging them to cooperate with security operatives by reporting suspicious movements or individuals.

“We call on members of the public to go about their lawful business. But they should be very mindful and careful of their surroundings and use the designated emergency response number. Any suspicious person they see around them should be immediately reported,” Daso said.

He further disclosed that enhanced screening measures would be enforced at worship centres.

“In terms of clearance, any individual going to churches must be properly scanned. And the same thing too for the mosque,” he added.

Governor Zulum Condemns Attack, Calls for Vigilance

Earlier, Akahi News reported that Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “inhumane and barbaric.”

In a statement issued Wednesday night by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

“I am deeply saddened by the Gamboru mosque suicide attack which occurred on Wednesday evening when worshippers were performing Maghrib prayer, killing five people and injuring 35 others,” Zulum said.

“The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane. Attacking a place of worship is a desecration of the sanctity of the mosque at a time when Muslim faithful are performing acts of worship.”

The governor also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while assuring residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to prevent further attacks during the festive season and beyond.

A Delicate Festive Period

Observers say the renewed security deployment underscores the fragile security situation in parts of the North-East, particularly during festive periods when public gatherings increase. Analysts note that proactive vigilance by security agencies and community cooperation remain critical in preventing further tragedies.

As Christmas celebrations continue, authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and maintaining peace, urging residents to remain alert and supportive of security efforts.

Akahi News will continue to monitor developments and provide timely updates as the situation unfolds.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

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