By Oso Abidemi
Security has been beefed up at Mogadishu Barracks, Nyanya-Mararaba axis of the Federal Capital Territory, days after an explosion, described by some sources as a failed suicide bombing rocked the area.
Although normalcy appears to have returned, with traders and commuters back in full swing around the barracks, the military has reinforced checks at the gates, particularly the entry into the popular Mami Market.
Unlike previous Fridays when security was relatively relaxed, soldiers were seen conducting thorough searches on everyone entering the barracks.
Our correspondent, along with other civilians, was frisked by military police before gaining entry.
One trader, a POS operator, expressed confidence in the military’s readiness to repel any threat. “Oga, forget. Nothing fit touch us for here.
“If anybody does anyhow for here, soldiers wey dey no get joy o,” she said in Pidgin English.
Monday’s explosion, which initially triggered panic, remains a subject of conflicting reports. While eyewitnesses claimed it was a bombing attempt, authorities have issued varied versions.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Police Command confirmed an explosion around 2:50 p.m., which injured one person.
According to police spokesperson Josephine Adeh, the scene was promptly cordoned off by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit for investigation.
However, a now-deleted post by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), painted a grimmer picture, describing the incident as a failed suicide bombing.
The agency said a suspect carrying an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), attempted to infiltrate the barracks before the device exploded, killing the suspect and injuring a passerby.
A military report obtained by The PUNCH corroborated NEMA’s version, stating that a suspect, who had alighted from a Volkswagen Golf near a checkpoint, was stopped by a military police officer before the IED detonated.
As of press time, the Nigerian Army has not issued a detailed follow-up statement.
Its only public comment so far, via its X (formerly Twitter) handle, read: “Explosion at bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment Abuja. Situation under control. Details later.”
Efforts to reach the Army spokesperson, Lt. Col. Onyechi Anele, for clarification were unsuccessful.
While business activities resume outside, the heightened security within the barracks reflects ongoing concern over potential threats and a deliberate show of readiness by the military.
