AN explosion on Thursday sent shockwaves through Obinwanne Community in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State, killing one man and injuring two passers-by.
News Point Nigeria reports that the tragic incident, which immediately sparked panic across the South-Eastern state, was captured in viral videos showing the victim writhing in pain, his legs mangled by the blast.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the deceased, identified as Chinworeke Mmadu, was attempting to plant an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in a nearby market before it detonated prematurely.
Some residents claimed he was working for a terror cell allegedly linked to separatist agitators in the region.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, said preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was in possession of the bomb when it exploded.
“On receipt of the distress call, operatives from Njaba Divisional Headquarters immediately mobilised to the scene. The victim was carrying an explosive device which detonated prematurely,” Okoye stated.
Two civilians caught in the blast radius sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital for urgent medical care.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Hamzat Abdulkadir, alongside operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, promptly visited the scene.
According to Okoye, the area was thoroughly swept, and security forces have since declared it safe for public use.
The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, who expressed sympathy to the injured, reassured residents of the Command’s determination to safeguard lives and property across the state.
“We urge residents to remain calm, security-conscious, and to always provide timely information that can help prevent criminal activities,” Danjuma said.
The explosion has left Obinwanne residents in shock, with locals fearful of possible future attacks. Community members have called on security agencies to step up surveillance, particularly in public spaces like markets and worship centres, to forestall any recurrence.
