In a harrowing turn of events, a bomb explosion shook the Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Kuchibuyi Village, Kubwa, Byazhin area of Abuja, leaving two people dead and two others severely injured. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the tragic incident on Monday, sparking nationwide concern over safety and security in the capital.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed in an official statement that the explosion occurred around 11 a.m. on Monday. Upon receiving a distress call from the Sarki of Kuchibuyi, a swift response was initiated, with police operatives, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and the Area Commander of Kubwa, rushing to the scene.
“The area was immediately cordoned off to protect residents and facilitate a thorough investigation,” SP Adeh stated.
Preliminary investigations revealed that three men from Katsina had visited the school’s proprietor, Mallam Adamu Ashimu, just before the explosion. The police suspect the visitors brought the improvised explosive device (IED) to the premises. Tragically, two of the men lost their lives while tampering with the device on the school’s veranda.
“The third man and a female trader nearby sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard,” Adeh said.
The bomb squad confirmed the explosion was caused by an IED, with remnants of the device recovered at the scene. Authorities have detained Mallam Adamu Ashimu for questioning as investigations intensify.
The FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has assured residents of a thorough investigation, urging the public to remain vigilant. “This incident is a sobering reminder of the importance of community vigilance. Suspicious activities must be reported promptly to prevent such tragedies,” Disu emphasized.
SP Adeh also issued critical safety advice for residents:
Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and report any unusual behavior or items.
Do Not Touch Suspicious Objects: If you encounter anything unusual, do not attempt to move or inspect it. Immediately contact the police.
Emergency Preparedness: Keep emergency numbers handy and share them with family and community members.
Community Collaboration: Work with neighbors to maintain a safe and secure environment.
The explosion has sent shockwaves through the FCT and beyond, with citizens expressing fears over the resurgence of insecurity. The incident underscores the critical need for strengthened intelligence and proactive measures to address the threat of terrorism in urban and rural areas alike.
Authorities have promised to keep the public informed as investigations unfold, with the hope of uncovering the motives behind this tragic act. Meanwhile, residents are urged to maintain vigilance and cooperate with law enforcement in ensuring the safety of their communities.
This devastating incident serves as a grim reminder of the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, and the collective responsibility required to confront them.
PIONEER NEWS 