Godwin Orozo-
An explosion rocked the Mogadishu Barracks area in Abuja on Monday afternoon, killing one person and injuring another, sparking fresh security concerns in Nigeria’s capital.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden inside a rubber can.
“The man, believed to be a suicide bomber, was killed by an explosive contained in a rubber can close to Mogadishu Barracks in Abuja,” a military personnel on site told reporters.
However, military authorities raised doubts about the nature of the blast, suggesting it may have been triggered remotely. “We are still looking into whether it was a phone-triggered device or an IED,” a senior officer, who spoke under anonymity, said.
The FCT Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred around 2:50 p.m. along the Mararaba-Nyanya bypass.
“One male victim was rescued and rushed to the hospital for medical attention,” said SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command. “Our Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit was deployed immediately, and we have cordoned off the scene to carry out a comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis, to determine the exact cause and nature of the explosion.”
Adeh urged residents to remain calm but vigilant: “We ask the public to go about their lawful activities without fear, as there is currently no cause for alarm. Residents should promptly report any suspicious persons, objects, or movements to the nearest police station.”
This incident once again underscores the persistent security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in Abuja, which has seen multiple past attacks. Security agencies have promised to increase surveillance and patrols in the area as investigations continue.
