The UN has expressed sadness over the suspected suicide bomb attack in a mosque in Gamboru, Maiduguri, Borno State in North-East Nigeria, which led to the loss of lives and left scores injured.

A bomb exploded during prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri on Wednesday night, killing five people in what police described as a likely suicide attack, according to media reports.

Police said that 35 people were also injured in the attack.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told journalists on Friday in New York that the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, had issued a statement to condole with the families of the victims.

Mr Dujarric said Mr Fall had conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed, and to the government and people of Borno State and wished the injured speedy recovery.

He said Mr Fall joined the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, in strongly condemning the “heinous attack” in a place of worship and echoed his call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures during this festive period and beyond.

The alleged suicide attack is yet another horrific reminder of the deadly toll of violent attacks in Borno State this year.

On September 5, more than 50 civilians were killed when suspected members of a non-state armed group attacked Darajamal, in the Bama Local Government Area, while other incidents have ranged from targeted attacks on communities to attacks on internally-displaced persons’ camps, using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and other tactics targeting farmers, fishermen, travellers, and traders.

The spokesperson said Mr Fall reiterated his call to parties to the conflict to protect civilians, including those gathered in places of worship, as well as their property, and to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.

The United Nations reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining support for people affected by the conflict in North-East Nigeria. 

(NAN) 

CIA/YEE