By Adenike Lawal and Ifeoluwa Odunayo
Twin explosions rocked the Federal Capital Territory on Monday afternoon, sparking fear and swift deployment of security forces across the city.
The blasts occurred within minutes of each other; first near the Mogadishu Cantonment and then along the busy Mararaba Nyanya bypass.
Initial fears of a terrorist attack were quickly dispelled as investigations confirmed that the first explosion, reported at about 2:32 p.m. under the pedestrian bridge near the Mogadishu Barracks checkpoint, was caused by a battery-related accident.
A mechanic working on a dry cell battery inadvertently triggered the blast, killing a bystander and injuring two others. The injured were rushed to the Defence Medical Centre for treatment.
The second explosion struck around 2:50 p.m. along the Mararaba Nyanya bypass. Officers from the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and its Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit promptly arrived at the scene, securing the area for forensic analysis.
One male victim was rescued and is receiving medical care at a nearby hospital.
In both cases, bomb disposal experts confirmed there was no evidence of terrorism.
“We urge residents to go about their daily activities but to remain alert,” said FCT Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh. “Report any suspicious activity or item to the nearest police station or through our emergency lines.”
Security presence has since been heightened across key areas in Abuja, with authorities assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat.
However, investigations into the exact circumstances of both blasts are still ongoing.
