IGAD condemns Mogadishu terror attack, expresses solidarity with Somalia

MOGADISHU - The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has condemned what it has called the 'cowardly terrorist attack perpetrated by the al-Shabaab terrorist group on the Jilacow Investigation Centre in Mogadishu, Somalia'.

The Saturday, October 4, 2025, afternoon event saw seven al-Shabaab militants killed in a suicide attack carried out by the Islamist group in the heart of Mogadishu, according to the Somali government.

However, the Somali government has not indicated how many of its security forces were killed during the incident.

The attack targeting a detention facility holding some of the group's militants lasted for hours, according to Online sources.

The Somali government said the country’s security forces swiftly and decisively neutralised the assailants, preventing further loss of life and demonstrating unwavering resilience in the face of continued acts of terror. Godka Jilicow, which is near the presidential palace, often holds Al-Shabaab militants before they go to trial.

"IGAD commends the professionalism and courage of Somalia’s security personnel, whose quick response averted greater tragedy. The attack, coming shortly after significant territorial gains by the Somali National Army in the Lower Shabelle region and the elimination of senior Al-Shabaab operatives through targeted operations, underscores the group’s growing desperation and the effectiveness of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts," a statement issued by the IGAD secretariat on October 5, reads.

An aerial view of the capital Mogadishu of Somalia on August 20, 2025. Once known for its security issues, Somalia is now becoming a new attraction for both locals and tourists thanks to its increasing stability. (AFP Photo)

IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, the statement says conveyed heartfelt solidarity: This attack will not shake Somalia’s courage or our region’s resolve. IGAD stands firmly with the people and Government of Somalia in the fight against terror and in pursuit of lasting peace and stability.

"IGAD reiterates its call for sustained regional and international co-operation to eliminate terrorism and promote lasting peace and resilience across the Horn of Africa".
Somalia has been in conflict with Al-Shabaab since the mid-2000s, with varying degrees of success.

But the situation has deteriorated significantly this year. The group has seized control of dozens of towns and villages since the beginning of the year, undoing nearly all governmental progress made during a 2022-2023 military campaign.

Despite the tense situation, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is pushing for the country to hold its first direct elections next year.

The head of state also visited the province of Jubaland on Sunday, where recent clashes, primarily over electoral disagreements, have occurred between the army and regional forces, according to AFP.

IGAD is a regional bloc consisting seven member states: Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, and Eritrea.