Tension as bomb blast rocks Niger State, one dead, many injured

A bomb explosion has shaken the Bassa Community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving one person feared dead and four others injured.  

The unfortunate incident occurred early yesterday morning as the victims were on their way to their farms.

Among the injured, three individuals suffered severe injuries, including shattered legs, and are currently receiving medical care at a government hospital.

Ahmed Almustapha, a resident of the area, confirmed the event and voiced the growing sense of insecurity and fear among the community members.

Local authorities are yet to provide further details on the explosion, as residents call for enhanced security measures to ensure their safety.

“Residents are now living in fear due to this ugly incident. Some are contemplating staying, while others have already fled to avoid potential future attacks.

“Tragically, three of the injured victims are siblings, and they are my sister’s children. This incident is even more worrisome because it is the second explosion in Bassa this month. Two weeks ago, a similar explosion claimed another life,” Almustapha explained.

He appealed to the federal and state governments to strengthen security in the area to allow residents to safely return to their farms and harvest their produce.

When contacted, the spokesman for the Niger State Police Command, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, stated that he would confirm the incident but had not responded as of the time of publication.

However, the Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Mohammed Bello Abdullahi, confirmed the explosion. He suggested it might be linked to the activities of bandits previously operating in the area before being dislodged by the military.

“The explosion could be an aftereffect of the activities of bandits who previously terrorized the area. We urge residents to remain calm as the ministry and security agencies are on top of the situation. Detailed findings from the investigation will be made public once concluded,” Abdullahi stated.

The situation has left the community in distress, with calls for immediate intervention to ensure the safety and security of residents.