Battery Explosion Near Mogadishu Cantonment: One Dead, Two Injured in Abuja Incident
By Zagazola Makama
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting a suicide bombing attempt, authorities have clarified that the explosion that occurred near the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja on Momday was not a terrorist incident but rather the result of a mechanical accident involving a dry cell battery.
The incident happened around 2:32 p.m. under the pedestrian bridge close to the main checkpoint of the military facility a popular spot where passengers typically alight before trekking into the cantonment.
According to security sources, a mechanic who was handling a dry cell battery experienced a sudden explosion. The blast fatally injured a bystander and left two others with varying degrees of injuries. The victims were quickly evacuated to the Defence Medical Centre (DMC) for urgent medical attention.
Initial confusion and panic at the scene had led to speculation of a suicide bomb attack. However, further investigation by a combined team of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists and Nigeria Police personnel confirmed that the explosion was not the result of any improvised explosive device (IED), but rather an unfortunate technical accident involving the battery.
The area was immediately cordoned off as standard procedure to rule out any additional threats, and the remains of the deceased were taken away for examination.
Security around the Mogadishu Cantonment has since been reinforced, but officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing terrorist threat linked to the incident.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the precise cause of the battery explosion and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
An official statement from the military is still being awaited.
