A suicide bombing attempt rocked Abuja on Monday, targeting the Mogadishu Army Cantonment along the Mararaba-Nyanya expressway, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
The incident occurred at approximately 1:47 pm when an individual wearing an improvised explosive device (IED) attempted to infiltrate the military facility.
The device detonated during the attempt, instantly killing the bomber, NEMA disclosed in a statement released on Tuesday. A civilian passerby sustained injuries in the blast and was promptly evacuated for treatment.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit of the Nigeria Police Force transported the injured civilian to the National Hospital in Abuja.
NEMA reported that the explosion prompted an immediate and coordinated response from multiple agencies.
The Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and NEMA collaborated to secure the area and manage the aftermath.
Preliminary investigations suggest the suicide bomber aimed to gain unauthorized entry into the barracks before the IED detonated.
Forensic experts have launched a detailed investigation to uncover further details about the incident. The multi-agency operation concluded at 5:29 pm, restoring calm to the area, NEMA confirmed.
The Nigerian Army and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Police Force had earlier acknowledged the explosion, noting that investigations were underway.
This incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Abuja, with authorities remaining vigilant against potential threats.
NEMA’s swift response and inter-agency cooperation highlight efforts to ensure public safety amid rising concerns over improvised explosive devices in Nigeria.
The investigation continues to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the attempted attack on the Mogadishu Cantonment.
