IBY
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The Nigerian Army has clarified that the explosion that rocked the Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Thursday was not the result of a terrorist attack or sabotage but was instead caused by extreme heat conditions.
In an official statement released by the Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI, and signed by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, the military confirmed that the incident occurred at an ammunition storage facility within the barracks.
According to the statement, “The explosion was due to the current high temperatures in Maiduguri, which led to the explosion of some munitions.” The Army emphasized that there was no external assault or security breach at the facility.
Eyewitnesses in Maiduguri reported loud booms and smoke rising from the barracks area, prompting initial fears of a possible attack by insurgents. However, the Army quickly moved to allay public fears.
Responding to the emergency, fire and rescue teams from the Borno State Fire Service, along with other emergency units from various security agencies, were swiftly mobilized to the scene. Their combined efforts ensured that the blaze was brought under control, preventing further damage or casualties.
To maintain order and prevent panic, troops under Operation HADIN KAI were deployed around the barracks and surrounding communities. Their presence helped to secure the area and discourage any potential miscreants from exploiting the incident.
Captain Kovangiya urged residents of Maiduguri, particularly those in the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, to disregard rumours of an attack and to go about their normal activities without fear. “The general public is therefore urged to please discountenance any speculation of an attack… and remain calm,” he stated.
He also reiterated that the Army remains fully committed to the safety and security of the people in the North-East region and will continue to act swiftly in any emergency situation.
Operation HADIN KAI is Nigeria’s ongoing counterinsurgency operation aimed at combating Boko Haram and other extremist threats in the North-East zone. The military has recently increased its operations in the region to improve stability and restore normalcy.
As of the time of filing this report, there have been no official statements regarding casualties or the extent of material damage, but the military noted that the situation is fully under control.
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