Panic spread across Mushin in Lagos on Monday after an explosion swayed the busy market area.
The incident left traders and residents in fright, explosion occurred at the popular Shoe Materials Market, drawing immediate attention from security agencies.
However, calm was later restored after police confirmed that the situation was under control.
Moreover, early findings revealed that the blast was caused by an Improvised Explosive Device placed under a vehicle.
The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, addressed journalists at the scene shortly after the area was secured.
He explained that swift action had been taken to contain the situation.
“We promptly deployed our EOD team after receiving reports of an explosion. The area was cordoned off and thoroughly searched,” he said.
According to him, the explosive device had been hidden carefully under the vehicle before it went off. Furthermore, he explained how the incident occurred.
“The IED was under the vehicle by the passenger side. It exploded when the vehicle was started,” he stated.
Meanwhile, one person was reported injured and was quickly taken to the hospital. The victim is said to be in stable condition, which has brought some relief to the community.
Additionally, security personnel conducted a thorough search of the entire market area. No other explosive devices were found, and normal activities have gradually resumed.
Therefore, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Also speaking, the Baale of Oke Mushin Community, Tajudeen Faronbi, described how the situation unfolded in the early hours.
“Early this morning, around one o’clock, while I was praying, I received a call that something unusual had been seen. When I got there, I saw a vehicle and people were afraid to go near it,” he said.
He added that he quickly alerted security officials, leading to a rapid response. Moreover, about 35 officers were deployed initially to secure the area and prevent further panic.
Furthermore, more officers later joined to strengthen security and ensure public safety. The area was then blocked off to allow experts to inspect the scene properly.
Investigations are still ongoing, as parts of the device have been recovered for forensic analysis. However, the identity of the vehicle owner remains unknown at this time.
