A Christmas Eve explosion at a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, has drawn sharp condemnation from Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The incident, which occurred at Gamboru Market, prompted the PDP to describe it as a tragic manifestation of the nation’s deteriorating security landscape, renewing calls for the government to address the pervasive insecurity plaguing the country.
In a press statement issued on December 24, 2025, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP asserted that the attack underscored a profound failure on the part of the current administration to uphold its fundamental duty of protecting citizens’ lives and property. The party emphasized that the ability to guarantee security remains the irreducible minimum expectation Nigerians have of their government, a standard it believes has not been met.
The statement highlighted the explosion as a grim reminder of the escalating security challenges that have become an unfortunate contemporary reality for Nigerians. The opposition decried the situation as unacceptable, arguing that the government must move beyond mere rhetoric and political posturing to implement concrete, actionable security strategies across the nation.
Expressing profound sympathy for the victims and their families, the PDP conveyed its condolences to those who lost loved ones in what it termed a senseless attack. The party stressed the sanctity of places of worship and the fundamental right of Nigerians to practice their faith without fear, lamenting that no individual should face such a tragic end while engaging in religious observance.
The opposition party issued a stern warning regarding the potential far-reaching consequences of unchecked attacks on religious sites. It cautioned that such incidents not only violate the constitutional right to freedom of worship but also risk fostering an atmosphere of widespread fear, thereby threatening the very fabric of Nigeria’s religiously diverse society.
Calling for decisive action, the PDP urged both the federal and state governments to immediately strengthen security measures, particularly during the festive season and beyond. The party underscored the urgent need for a robust and visible security presence to protect citizens, rather than relying on unfulfilled promises.
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has historically been a focal point for insurgent activities, making such attacks particularly sensitive and indicative of persistent security vulnerabilities in the North-East region. The constant threat of violence profoundly impacts daily life, commerce, and social cohesion within communities.
This latest incident and the subsequent political fallout underscore the deep public frustration with the ongoing security crisis in Nigeria. The PDP’s critique reflects a broader sentiment among many Nigerians who demand tangible results and a more proactive approach to security from their leaders, rather than continued assurances that fail to translate into tangible safety on the ground.
The call for immediate and practical steps highlights the urgency required to confront the escalating insecurity, which the PDP described as unbearable. The party’s statement concludes by asserting that Nigerians deserve proactive, on-the-ground security deployments that demonstrate a serious commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods across the country.
The political ramifications of such security breaches often intensify pressure on the ruling party, especially when opposition voices consistently highlight perceived governmental shortcomings. This continuous dialogue between the government and opposition on critical national issues like security remains a vital component of democratic accountability, pushing for improved governance and citizen protection.
“keywords”:”Maiduguri explosion, Nigeria insecurity, PDP condemnation, Gamboru Market attack, Christmas Eve security, Government failure, Religious freedom Nigeria, Borno State violence
