Hundreds of fighters from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been captured in a viral footage gathering in large numbers to observe Eid prayers in Borno State, openly brandishing assault rifles and other sophisticated weapons.
The development has sparked fresh concerns over insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East, as the insurgents were seen conducting prayers in what appeared to be an open field without fear of interruption.
Eid, a major Islamic festival observed after the holy month of Ramadan, is traditionally marked by peace, charity and communal worship.
However, the emergence of heavily armed insurgents participating in such a religious gathering has raised alarm among residents and security experts.
In multimedia clips released on Saturday by propaganda platform AZ-ZALLAQA, dozens of insurgents were seen lined up in formation, observing prayers while clutching AK-47 rifles and other high-grade weapons.
The footage showed the group occupying what appeared to be an Eid prayer ground in Borno, the epicentre of insurgency in Nigeria for over a decade.
ISWAP Terrorists observing Eid Prayers in Borno
The display has triggered outrage and fear, with analysts questioning the operational strength of the terror groups and the effectiveness of ongoing military operations in the region.
Despite repeated claims by the Federal Government and the military that the insurgents have been “technically defeated,” such developments continue to challenge that narrative.
CityNews reports that Boko Haram and ISWAP have long terrorised communities across Borno and neighbouring states, carrying out deadly attacks, mass abductions and displacing millions of civilians.
The concerns come amid renewed violence in the region, including recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The explosions, which occurred on March 16, targeted crowded civilian locations such as the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Monday Market and a central post office.
The attacks, believed to have been carried out by suicide bombers, struck during a busy period at sunset when many residents were breaking their Ramadan fast or returning home.
Reports indicate that at least 26 people were killed, while over 100 others sustained injuries, with some estimates suggesting a higher death toll.
Hospitals in the city were overwhelmed as emergency responders rushed victims for treatment.
