Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has refuted claims that Monday’s explosion near the Mogadishu Army Cantonment along the Abuja-Keffi Road was a suicide bombing.
Speaking during an inspection tour of FCT projects, Wike clarified that the blast was caused by an individual who unknowingly stole an explosive device from a quarry. The device detonated while in transit. He stressed that Abuja remains the safest city in Nigeria and assured residents that his administration is committed to maintaining security.
Wike’s remarks contradict a statement issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which earlier claimed that a suicide bomber carrying an improvised explosive device (IED) attempted to infiltrate the cantonment before the device exploded.
According to NEMA, the explosion occurred around 1:47 p.m., injuring one passerby and killing the alleged bomber. Emergency teams, including the police, military, and other agencies, responded to the scene and concluded operations by 5:29 p.m.
The police also announced an ongoing forensic investigation to determine the precise cause and nature of the explosion.
