by Willy Okonji, Lagos:
An improvised explosive device (IED) explosion on Monday morning threw residents of Oke Mushin in Lagos into panic after a bomb detonated beneath a parked vehicle, injuring its owner.
The explosion occurred at about 6 a.m. at No. 22 Wey Street, Oke Mushin, and was traced to an IED allegedly planted underneath a Toyota Sienna with registration number AAA11FX (Lagos), which had reportedly been parked in the area overnight.
Residents said the owner of the vehicle, who reportedly moved into the neighbourhood about three months ago, was preparing to leave for work when the device exploded.
According to eyewitness accounts, the victim had started the vehicle’s engine when the bomb detonated on the passenger side, leaving him injured.
The incident sparked fear among residents and business owners in the area, prompting a swift response from security agencies. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, alongside bomb disposal experts, visited the scene, which was immediately cordoned off for investigation.
Observations at the scene showed extensive damage to the vehicle. The passenger side had been blown apart, while parts of the car were scorched and stained with gunpowder residue. Broken glass fragments littered the surrounding area.
Speaking at the scene, CP Fatai said investigators were reviewing the victim’s account as part of efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
“The victim’s statement is being reviewed, and investigations are ongoing to establish the facts surrounding the incident,” the police commissioner said.
The Baale of Oke Mushin, Chief Tajudeen Lasisi Farunbi, said he received a distress call shortly after the explosion and immediately rushed to the location.
“I got a call around 6 a.m. informing me about the explosion. When I arrived, I saw that parts of the vehicle had been shattered,” Farunbi said.
The traditional ruler added that he promptly alerted security authorities and cautioned residents against tampering with the vehicle before the arrival of bomb disposal personnel.
“I immediately contacted the Area Commander and the Divisional Police Officer and advised people not to touch the vehicle until security operatives arrived,” he stated.
Farunbi said he had no prior knowledge of the vehicle owner, noting only that the Toyota Sienna had been seen in the neighbourhood for about two to three months.
Security agencies have commenced a full investigation into the incident as residents await answers over the shocking blast.
