Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly denounced the suicide bombing at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which killed at least five worshippers and injured dozens more during evening prayers on Christmas Eve.

Describing the incident as a “despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation,” Shettima emphasized that such acts of terror will not deter the Federal Government’s determination to eradicate insurgency.

In response to the attack, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed an immediate ramp-up of security operations across Borno State. Additional tactical teams are being deployed to hunt down the perpetrators, with security agencies operating around the clock to ensure swift justice.

“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation,” Shettima stated.

“Our security forces are fully equipped and supported to bring these criminals to account and uncover every detail of this heinous crime.

“The Vice President extended heartfelt condolences to the Borno State government, residents of Maiduguri, and families of the victims, assuring them that the perpetrators will face the full force of the law.

He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s ironclad commitment to national security since taking office in 2023, pledging continued resources and backing for security agencies to decisively combat terrorism in all its manifestations.

Shettima noted ongoing collaboration with state and local authorities to bolster protection for vulnerable communities and key infrastructure in the North East and beyond.

The bombing, confirmed by authorities as a likely suicide attack, marks a rare breach of calm in Maiduguri, which had seen no major incidents since 2021.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for calm following the fire incident that engulfed the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, yesterday.

In a press statement this morning , Gbenga Omotoso Commissioner for Information and Strategy, said that the Governor has been personally monitoring the situation since the incident was reported.

He assures residents that the government remains fully on top of the situation and will continue to provide updates as necessary.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said:“Our priority is the safety of lives. I have directed that the building and its surroundings be thoroughly secured and that emergency personnel must ensure that no one is left inside.

” I commend our firefighters and first responders for their swift and courageous response. Lagosians should remain calm; the situation is under control.”

A suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated inside a mosque at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Wednesday evening, killing several worshippers and injuring others during Maghrib prayers.

The blast occurred around 6:00 p.m. local time, ripping through the crowded mosque and sparking widespread panic in the bustling market area.

Eyewitnesses described thick smoke billowing from the site as traders and residents fled, while others rushed to aid the victims.

Reports indicate at least seven people were killed, though official casualty figures are yet to be confirmed as rescue operations continue. Security forces, including the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, quickly cordoned off the area for sweeping operations and investigations.

No group has claimed responsibility, but the attack bears the hallmarks of previous incidents linked to Boko Haram or its offshoot, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which have targeted mosques and crowded places in the region despite relative calm in Maiduguri in recent years.

The incident, occurring on Christmas Eve, has heightened fears among residents amid ongoing insurgency challenges in northeast Nigeria.