Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has condemned in strong terms a suicide attack at a mosque in Gomboru Market, Maiduguri metropolis, which claimed five lives and injured 35.

The governor described the attack, which occurred on Wednesday evening during congregational prayers, as barbaric and inhumane.

A statement issued by Mr Zulum’s special adviser on media, Dauda Iliya, said a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque while worshippers were observing prayers.

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

“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,” Mr Zulum said.

The governor, who conveyed his message from the frontline in northern Borno, expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

“I wish to express my condolences to the families of all those that lost their lives in the attack and pray for the repose of their souls, and for the speedy recovery of those injured,” he stated.

Mr Zulum also called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship and other public spaces during the festive period.

He, however, announced that the state government in collaboration with security agencies had put in place adequate measures to forestall any security breach during the festive season and beyond.

(NAN)