A suspected bomb explosion on Monday triggered panic at a busy market in Mushin, Lagos, leaving one person injured and prompting a swift security response.
The incident, which occurred at the popular Shoe Materials Market in the area, was reportedly caused by an Improvised Explosive Device planted under a vehicle, according to the Nigeria Police Force.
Addressing journalists at the scene, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, said operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit were immediately deployed after the command received distress calls about the blast.
He said the area was swiftly cordoned off and thoroughly searched to prevent further danger.
“We promptly deployed our EOD team after receiving reports of an explosion. The area was secured and carefully examined,” Tijani stated.
Preliminary investigations, he added, revealed that the explosive device had been concealed beneath the passenger side of a vehicle and detonated when the engine was ignited.
“The IED was placed under the vehicle and exploded on ignition,” he said.
The police boss disclosed that one individual sustained injuries in the explosion and had been taken to a hospital, where the victim was responding to treatment.
Tijani further noted that a comprehensive sweep of the area by bomb disposal experts did not uncover any additional devices, assuring residents and traders that normal activities could safely resume.
He said remnants of the explosive had been recovered for forensic analysis, while investigations were ongoing to identify those responsible.
The commissioner urged the public to remain calm and disregard unverified reports suggesting a wider security breach in Lagos.
“The command remains committed to protecting lives and property. Residents should go about their lawful activities without fear,” he added.
Also speaking, the Baale of Oke Mushin, Tajudeen Faronbi, said the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, creating anxiety among residents.
According to him, he received an alert about a suspicious vehicle around 1am and immediately contacted security agencies, who responded promptly.
Faronbi commended the rapid deployment of security personnel, noting that their intervention helped to avert further panic and possible casualties.
He, however, said the identity and ownership of the vehicle used in the incident remained unknown as of the time of filing this report.
Security has since been reinforced in the area, with authorities intensifying efforts to track down those behind the attack.
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