The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has rejected claims that the recent explosion at the Mogadishu Barracks in Abuja was caused by a suicide bomber. He told reporters that the blast was not the result of any terror plot, countering a report issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Wike made these comments on Wednesday while addressing the media during an inspection tour of ongoing road projects in Abuja. He said that the explosion, which caused concern among residents, happened because an individual unknowingly took a dangerous device from a blasting site.
“The security agencies never stated that it was a suicide bomber. Therefore, we should avoid creating unnecessary fear among the public. NEMA is not the lead security agency; security agencies are responsible for such matters,” Wike said.
He further noted that the victim had picked up an explosive device, likely thinking it was harmless, and put it in his pocket. The device later exploded, killing the person. According to Wike, the location where the man found the device is a quarry where rocks are broken using explosives.
“What happened was that someone went to a quarry site, where rocks are blasted, and took an explosive device, placing it in his pocket without understanding its danger. The device then detonated on him,” he explained.
Wike also advised media outlets and government agencies to avoid spreading reports that could cause fear or confusion among residents. “This does not mean it was a suicide bombing. We must be careful with the narratives we promote; we should not send misleading messages to residents,” he added.
The explosion, which took place near the Nyanya-Mararaba road, sparked panic in the area. While initial reports by NEMA described it as a failed suicide bombing, the FCT Police Command has not confirmed that version of events.
According to SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, investigators are working on the case and will carry out forensic checks to determine exactly what led to the explosion. She noted that until the investigation is complete, no final conclusions should be drawn.
