BREAKING: Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters Hold Armed Eid Prayers After Maiduguri Bombings
Hundreds of suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have appeared in a newly released video showing them gathered in large numbers to observe Eid prayers in Borno State, openly carrying assault rifles and other sophisticated weapons.
The footage, reportedly circulated by the propaganda platform AZ-ZALLAQA on Saturday, shows the insurgents assembled in formation at what appears to be an open Eid prayer ground. Many of them were seen clutching AK-47 rifles and other high-grade weapons during the congregational prayers.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is traditionally a period of peace, charity, and communal worship for Muslims worldwide. However, the emergence of heavily armed insurgents conducting prayers in such a manner has heightened concerns about the security situation in Nigeria’s North-East.
Security analysts and residents say the development reflects the continued operational capacity of the terror groups, raising questions about the effectiveness of ongoing military efforts in the region. Borno State has remained the epicentre of insurgency for over a decade, with Boko Haram and ISWAP responsible for widespread violence, including attacks, abductions, and mass displacement.
The development comes days after a series of deadly bombings in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on March 16. The coordinated explosions targeted crowded civilian locations, including the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Monday Market, and a central post office.
The attacks occurred around sunset, when many residents were either breaking their Ramadan fast or returning home, contributing to the high number of casualties. Initial reports indicate that at least 26 people were killed, while more than 100 others sustained injuries, though some estimates suggest the death toll may be higher.
Hospitals in the city were overwhelmed as emergency responders rushed victims for treatment. Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes, with many of the injured lying on the ground awaiting medical assistance.
The pattern of the attacks, believed to have been carried out by suicide bombers targeting crowded areas, is consistent with previous operations by insurgent groups in the region.
Despite repeated claims by authorities that the insurgents have been significantly weakened, incidents such as the recent bombings and the latest video have continued to fuel concerns about persistent insecurity in the North-East.
