Boko Haram ISWAP Terrorists Hold Eid Prayer In Borno

[Awwal]

Hundreds of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were seen gathering in large numbers to observe Eid prayer in the Lake Chad region of Borno State after the recent Maiduguri bombings on March 21, 2026. The fighters were captured in video footage standing in formation and holding rifles and other dangerous weapons while performing the Eid prayer in an open field. The incident has raised serious concern about security in Nigeria's North-East and the growing boldness of insurgent groups.

Eid is a major Islamic celebration that comes after the holy month of Ramadan and is known as a time of peace, unity, charity, and worship among Muslims across the world. However, the appearance of armed terrorists conducting Eid prayer publicly has shocked many people and created fear among residents and observers. Many security experts believe this shows that the insurgents are still active and capable of organizing large gatherings despite military operations in the region.

The video clips were reportedly released by a propaganda platform known as AZ-ZALLAQA, showing a large number of fighters praying together while carrying AK-47 rifles and other sophisticated weapons. The footage also showed that the terrorists occupied what looked like an Eid prayer ground in Borno State, which has remained the center of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency for many years.

This development has created fresh concern among security analysts and residents, as it raises questions about the strength of terrorist groups and the effectiveness of ongoing military efforts. Although the Nigerian government and military have repeatedly stated that Boko Haram has been technically defeated, incidents like this continue to challenge those claims and show that the threat is still present in some parts of the North-East.

The situation became more worrying after the deadly Maiduguri bombings that happened on March 16, 2026. Several explosions hit crowded civilian areas such as the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital entrance, Monday Market, and the Central Post Office during the evening when people were breaking their Ramadan fast. The attack caused panic as many people were injured and emergency workers rushed to save victims.

Reports showed that at least 26 people lost their lives and more than 100 others were injured in the attack, with hospitals overwhelmed by the number of victims. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes with many wounded people lying on the ground waiting for help. The coordinated bombings, believed to be carried out by suicide bombers, have once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Borno State and the need for stronger measures to protect civilians.