By Our Reporter, Owerri
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has officially confirmed that the explosion that rocked Abuja on Monday afternoon near the Mogadishu Army Cantonment, located along the heavily trafficked Mararaba-Nyanya expressway, was the result of a failed suicide bombing attempt.
According to preliminary information, the incident occurred at approximately 1:47 p.m. when a suspected suicide bomber, clad in an improvised explosive device (IED), tried to gain unauthorized access to the fortified military barracks. The device detonated prematurely during the attempt, instantly killing the suspect.
Eyewitnesses and emergency responders at the scene confirmed that one civilian bystander was injured by the blast. The victim received immediate attention and was quickly transported to the National Hospital in Abuja by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit.
Following the explosion, a swift multi-agency emergency response was activated. The coordinated effort involved personnel from NEMA, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). These agencies collaborated to secure the area, provide medical assistance, and initiate a comprehensive investigation.
In a statement released Tuesday, NEMA stated that the suicide bomber was neutralized before gaining entry into the barracks. The agency also confirmed that forensic analysts have been deployed to the blast site to examine evidence and determine the construction and origin of the explosive device.
The operation was officially concluded by 5:29 p.m. the same day, with security operatives maintaining a heightened presence around the area to ensure public safety and prevent further threats. Authorities have since launched a detailed investigation, which remains ongoing.
Security agencies are calling on members of the public to remain calm but alert, and to report any suspicious activity or individuals to nearby law enforcement officials.
