Bomb explodes inside mosque in Maiduguri market, worshippers killed

By: Zagazola Makama

Several worshippers were killed on Tuesday after an explosive device detonated inside a mosque at Gamborun Market in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The explosion occurred while worshippers were gathered for prayers, causing panic and chaos within the busy market area.

Eyewitnesses said the blast ripped through part of the mosque, killing some worshippers instantly and leaving others with varying degrees of injuries.

Traders and residents in the area were seen fleeing the scene as thick smoke billowed from the mosque, while others attempted to assist victims before emergency responders arrived.

Security operatives cordoned off the area shortly after the incident to prevent further casualties and to allow for preliminary assessment of the situation.

As of the time of filing this report, the exact number of casualties had not been officially confirmed.

Bomb explodes inside mosque in Maiduguri market, worshippers killed

Igbo Association Raises Alarm Over Abuja–South East Highways, Seeks Urgent Federal Action

By: Michael Mike

Igbo residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja have expressed worries about the worsening condition of major highways linking Abuja to the South East, warning that continued neglect has turned the roads into serious safety hazards for commuters and businesses.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Igbo Community Association in the Federal Capital Territory (ICA FCT) said the poor state of the road network had persisted for decades, despite repeated appeals for rehabilitation.

The group in a statement signed by the association’s President General, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, and Secretary General, Mazi Emmanuel Chinwoke Onah,

noted that large sections of the highways are riddled with potholes, failed portions and weak security presence, making travel dangerous and discouraging economic activities between the North Central and South East regions.

The group argued that the situation reflects long-standing infrastructure neglect and an uneven distribution of national resources, adding that the dilapidated roads have become attractive routes for criminal operations, including armed robbery and kidnappings.

According to ICA FCT, the impact of the bad roads goes beyond transportation challenges, contributing to youth frustration, reduced commercial exchanges and a growing sense of exclusion among people of the South East. The association urged the Federal Government to declare an emergency on the affected corridors and begin immediate reconstruction to ensure the safety of travelers, particularly during the festive season.

The association also called on lawmakers from the South East and the Minister of Works to take responsibility for restoring the roads to acceptable standards, stressing that infrastructure development is critical to national cohesion and economic growth.

Warning of political consequences, the group said communities in the South East would hold their representatives accountable if tangible progress is not recorded before the 2027 general elections. It added that voters would be mobilized to oppose the re-election of lawmakers perceived to have failed in addressing the issue.

Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of Igbo people, the ICA FCT said it would continue to advocate for improved infrastructure, enhanced security and equitable development across all regions of the country.
End

IPCR Urges Peace, Unity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas

By: Michael Mike

As Nigerians join millions around the world to mark the Christmas season, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has appealed to citizens to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold the values of unity, tolerance and mutual respect.

In a Christmas message signed by its Director-General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Institute described the festive period as a time for reflection, reconciliation and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence. It noted that the values associated with Christmas—love, compassion and forgiveness—remain critical to addressing the country’s security and social challenges.

The Institute stressed that peacebuilding is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of individuals, communities and institutions. According to IPCR, sustainable peace can only be achieved when justice, equity and fairness are upheld, adding that peace should be seen not merely as the absence of conflict but as the presence of social justice.

Highlighting its mandate, IPCR said it has continued to play a key role in promoting peace and stability across Nigeria through research, policy advisory services and direct interventions in conflict-prone areas. The Institute revealed that it has trained thousands of mediators, peace practitioners and community leaders, whose efforts have helped prevent the escalation of disputes and foster harmony in various parts of the country.

IPCR also called on leaders at all levels to prioritize peace and national cohesion, particularly during the festive season, while urging citizens to show compassion towards the vulnerable and marginalized in society.

The Institute reminded Christians that the birth of Jesus Christ, celebrated on December 25, symbolizes peace and peaceful coexistence, values it said are essential for national development. It further advised Nigerians traveling for the celebrations to act as ambassadors of peace by spreading messages of love, tolerance and understanding wherever they go.

According to the Institute, a peaceful environment remains a catalyst for development, noting that nations that enjoy stability progress faster than those plagued by conflict.

IPCR however urged Nigerians to use the Christmas season to recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

IPCR Urges Peace, Unity as Nigerians Celebrate Christmas