PDP Condemns Maiduguri Mosque Explosion, Blames Tinubu Administration for Security Failures

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the bomb explosion that rocked a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Wednesday, describing the incident as a tragic reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation. The opposition party accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of failing in its fundamental responsibility to protect the lives and property of citizens, particularly as the country approaches the festive season.

The explosion, which occurred at a Juma’at Mosque in Gamboru Ward, near the Customs area of Maiduguri, claimed several lives and left many others injured. The incident happened around 6:10 p.m., less than 12 hours before Christmas, while Muslim worshippers were observing the Maghrib prayer, deepening concerns over the safety of places of worship across the country.

PDP Faults Government Over Rising Insecurity

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP described the attack as “totally unacceptable” and a painful reminder of the persistent insecurity Nigerians face daily. The party stressed that the protection of lives and property represents the minimum obligation of any government, arguing that the current administration has failed to meet this standard.

According to the PDP, repeated attacks across different parts of the country indicate a pattern of ineffective security management. The party urged the Federal Government to move beyond political rhetoric and address the security crisis with seriousness and urgency, noting that Nigerians are increasingly vulnerable in their homes, markets, and places of worship.

The opposition party warned that continued attacks on religious centres threaten not only public safety but also the constitutional right of Nigerians to practise their faith freely, potentially creating an atmosphere of fear capable of undermining national cohesion

Details of the Maiduguri Explosion

Channels Television reports that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), allegedly detonated by suspected Boko Haram insurgents. The attack took place in a busy commercial and residential area of Maiduguri, amplifying fears about the insurgents’ continued capacity to strike within the state capital.

Residents who spoke to Channels Television by telephone said the blast caused panic among worshippers and nearby residents, with several people sustaining injuries. Emergency responders and security personnel were deployed to the area shortly after the incident to restore order and evacuate victims.

Providing an official update, the Police Public Relations Officer in Borno State, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed that preliminary investigations indicate five persons were killed in the explosion, while about 35 others sustained varying degrees of injuries. He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

Calls for Urgent and Practical Security Measures

The PDP commiserated with families of the victims, describing the loss of lives during worship as particularly tragic. The party stressed that no Nigerian should be killed while practising their religion and called for immediate steps to prevent further attacks.

The party urged both Federal and State Governments to deploy concrete, actionable security strategies, especially during the yuletide season when public gatherings increase. It emphasised that Nigerians deserve tangible security measures rather than promises and statements, warning that the current level of insecurity has become unbearable.

As investigations continue, the Maiduguri explosion has renewed national debate on the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security framework and the urgent need for reforms to protect citizens from persistent threats.