The police on Monday foiled an attempt to bomb the Mogadishu Barracks in Abuja after a man carrying an improvised explosive device (IED) was stopped before he could get close to the military facility.
The incident happened around 2:50 p.m. near the Mararaba–Nyanya bypass when security officials noticed something suspicious about the man’s load and directed him to move away from the checkpoint.
Shortly after being turned away, the device exploded, killing the man on the spot.
Two other individuals who were nearby sustained injuries and were immediately taken to a military hospital for treatment.
The Nigerian military has not yet released an official statement, but the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the explosion and said that officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit were sent to the scene.
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The area was quickly sealed off to allow for investigation and to ensure the safety of residents and commuters.
According to the police, a full forensic analysis is underway to determine the nature and source of the explosive.
Authorities are calling on residents to stay calm and alert, urging them to report any unusual behaviour or items to the nearest police station.
There is currently no indication of further danger in the area.
