By Gbenga Nicholas, Abuja
An explosion occurred on Monday afternoon, 26 May, 2025, along the Mararaba-Nyanya bypass near Mogadishu Barracks in Abuja, claiming the life of one individual and injuring another.
Eyewitnesses, including a military personnel present at the scene, reported that the explosion appeared to be caused by a device hidden inside a rubber can. The man believed to be carrying the explosive—possibly a suicide bomber—was killed instantly in the blast.
However, initial assessments by military officials on the ground suggest that the explosion might have been triggered by a phone device, and not a traditional Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh who confirmed the incident said the command has initiated a comprehensive forensic investigation into the blast.
She said; “At approximately 2:50 PM, the FCT Police Command received a distress call about the explosion. Officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit were quickly dispatched to secure the scene.
“The area was immediately cordoned off to protect nearby residents and commuters while emergency agencies—including the DSS, police, and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)—responded.
“One male victim was rescued and rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care,” she said.
She asserted that “a detailed forensic analysis is underway to determine the precise cause and nature of the explosion. Authorities are treating the situation with urgency and have promised to update the public as more information becomes available.”
“The police have urged Abuja residents to remain calm and avoid panic. “There is no cause for alarm at the moment,” the statement reassured. Citizens are advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious persons, objects, or activities to security agencies immediately.
