The Nigerian Army has confirmed that the recent explosion at Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri was triggered by extreme heat and not linked to any terrorist activity.
Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI, made the clarification on Wednesday while addressing the press.
“The explosion was due to the current high temperatures in Maiduguri, which led to the detonation of some munitions stored in one of our ammunition depots,” Kovangiya stated.
He explained that the situation was swiftly contained, thanks to a coordinated response from the Borno State Fire Service and additional firefighting support from other security agencies.
“Our troops under Operation HADIN KAI have also been deployed to secure the area and ensure that no opportunistic elements exploit the situation,” he added.
Kovangiya urged residents of Maiduguri and its environs to remain calm and disregard circulating rumors of a terrorist attack in the city.
“There is no cause for panic. The incident was not an act of terror, and we have taken all necessary steps to safeguard public safety and prevent a repeat occurrence,” he assured.