ABUJA – An Abuja explosion on Monday caused panic near the Mogadishu Cantonment, widely known as Abacha Barracks. The blast killed one person and left another injured. The Nigerian Army quickly confirmed the incident. The situation is now reported to be under control.
Blast Details and Eyewitness Account
The explosion, suspected to involve an improvised explosive device (IED), occurred at a bus stop opposite the cantonment. The Nigerian Army stated on its verified X handle: “BREAKING NEWS, explosion at bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja. Situation under control, details later….” A military person at the scene, who requested anonymity, told National Scoop, “We heard a loud bang. The man who died had a rubber can with him—looked like he was trying to plant something when it went off.” This Abacha Barracks incident is now a major security focus.
Cause of Explosion Under Investigation
Initial suspicion pointed to a suicide bomber. This was due to reports that the deceased was carrying a container thought to hold explosives. However, military authorities at the scene advised caution. They suggested the Mogadishu Cantonment blast might have been caused by a phone-triggered device, not necessarily a traditional IED. “We are investigating all angles, including the possibility of an accidental phone-related blast,” one officer at the scene said. Another security official involved in the emergency response stated, “There was panic, but we’ve secured the perimeter and ruled out any further threat.”
Heavy Security Response in Abuja
Security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), promptly arrived. They worked to manage the situation after the Abuja explosion. The area around the bus stop was evacuated and sealed off to prevent more casualties. A civilian who witnessed the event recounted, “We were just heading home when everything went dark and smoky. People started running.” Authorities have assured residents that investigations are progressing and urged the public to remain calm.
By Abiodun Labi
