LAGOS, Nigeria – An explosion shook the Ikeja Military Cantonment in Lagos State on Monday, causing concern among residents. The blast took place on a farmland within the cantonment, but fortunately, no casualties were reported at the time.
The Nigerian Army addressed the incident, labeling it as a minor event and reassuring the public to remain calm. The Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal team immediately cordoned off the area of the explosion for a thorough investigation. This comes after a tragic bomb explosion in 2002, which resulted in fatalities and displaced numerous individuals within the cantonment.
In a significant discovery in October 2023, 642 unexploded bombs were recovered from the cantonment, highlighting the ongoing risks within the area. The Army emphasized the need for caution, especially given the history of explosions in the cantonment.
According to Maj Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Public Relations for the Nigerian Army, the explosion on Monday appears to have been triggered by a farmer burning refuse and other flammable materials on the farmland. Despite concerns about unexploded ordnances, the Army assured the public that the situation is under control and that there is no immediate threat to residents.
The Army’s prompt response and containment efforts demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the community. As investigations continue into the cause of the explosion, residents in the area are urged to remain vigilant but not panic. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers within military cantonments and the importance of proper disposal of hazardous materials.