Nigerian Police Begin Screening Of Church, Mosque Worshippers
Security agencies in Borno State have introduced mandatory screening for worshippers entering churches and mosques following a bomb attack that killed at least five people in Maiduguri.
The explosion occurred on Wednesday evening around 6:00 p.m. at the Al-Adum Mosque in the Gamboru Market area while worshippers were gathered for Maghrib prayers. Several others were injured in the attack.
In response, the Borno State Police Command has deployed more than 1,000 officers across Maiduguri and other key locations to strengthen security, especially as Christians celebrate Christmas and Muslims continue daily prayers.
Speaking on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, said the incident prompted security agencies to intensify existing safety measures around places of worship and public areas expected to attract large crowds.
According to him, police officers and other security personnel have been stationed at churches, mosques, recreational centres, and strategic points across the city. He added that all worshippers would now be subjected to security checks before being allowed entry.
Daso explained that the affected area was immediately sealed off after the explosion to ensure public safety and allow emergency responders to carry out their duties.
He noted that although security arrangements were already in place before the attack, the police decided to strengthen them further following Wednesday’s incident.
The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, advising them to report any suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies using designated emergency numbers.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and inhumane. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries sustained during the attack.
Zulum emphasized that attacking a place of worship violated its sanctity and assured residents that the government had put additional security measures in place to prevent further attacks during the festive period and beyond.
