The FCT Police Command said on Monday confirmed an explosion at the Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Kuchibuyi Village, Bwari Area Council.
The incident, confirmed as an improvised explosive device (IED) detonation, left two men dead and two others, including a female trader, severely injured.
According to the FCT Police Command, preliminary investigations suggest that three men from Katsina traveled to the school and met with its owner, Mallam Adamu Ashimu.
The visitors are suspected to have brought the explosive device, which detonated while they were reportedly tampering with it on the school veranda.
Tragically, two of the men died instantly, while the third and a nearby trader sustained critical injuries. Both are currently receiving medical attention under police guard.
Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh confirmed the incident, stating, “The three visitors are suspected of having brought the explosive device with them.
“Tragically, two of the men died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED), on the school Veranda, while the third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard.
“The FCT Bomb Squad has confirmed that it was an IED explosion, as remnants of the device have been recovered.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Josephine Adeh while confirming the incident said, “Mallam Adamu Ashimu, the owner of the school, has been taken into custody for questioning, and further findings will be communicated in due course.
Her statement reads, “The FCT Police Command regrets to inform the public of a tragic incident involving a suspected bomb explosion that occurred on January 6, 2025, at approximately 11am at the Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School, located in Kuchibuyi Village, Byazhin area of the FCT.
“Upon receiving a distress call from the Sarki of Kuchibuyi, a team of police operatives, including the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and the Area Commander of Kubwa, swiftly mobilized to the scene.
“The area was immediately cordoned off to protect residents and facilitate a thorough investigation.
“During the rescue operation, victims were promptly evacuated and rushed to the Hospital for medical attention.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that three men from Katsina had visited the owner of the Islamic school, Mallam Adamu Ashimu.
“The three visitors are suspected of having brought the explosive device with them.
“Tragically, two of the men died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED), on the school Veranda, while the third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard.
“The FCT Bomb Squad has confirmed that it was an IED explosion, as remnants of the device have been recovered.
“Mallam Adamu Ashimu, the owner of the school, has been taken into custody for questioning, and further findings will be communicated in due course.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Olatunji Disu urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, behavior, or items that may resemble improvised explosive devices to the police via our emergency numbers:
- 0806 158 1938
- 0803 200 3913
- 0802 894 0883
- 0705 733 7653
- CRU: 0810 731 4192
- PCB: 0902 222 2352
A Safety advice issued by the Police for residents of FCT following the incident said, “Stay Alert:Be aware of your surroundings and report any unusual behaviour or items to the authorities.
“Do Not Touch Suspicious Objects: If you encounter any suspicious items, do not touch or attempt to move them. Instead, call the police immediately.
“Emergency Numbers: Keep emergency contact numbers handy and ensure your family members are aware of them.
“Community Vigilance: Collaborate with your neighbours to maintain a safe environment.”