AfriPulse
March 23, (THEWILL) — Panic has gripped residents of Nuku village near Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State following a deadly explosion caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
Sources privy to the incident told THEWILL that the explosion occurred on Monday morning when a vehicle conveying passengers reportedly drove over the suspected explosive device allegedly planted by bandits along the road leading to the community.
Eyewitnesses said the blast, which occurred about 200 metres from Woro, was massive, destroying the vehicle and sending shockwaves across nearby settlements. Residents said only one person was believed to have survived the explosion, while other occupants were killed instantly.
Although the exact number of casualties has yet to be officially confirmed, locals described the impact as devastating, noting that the incident has heightened fear and uncertainty across Kaiama and surrounding communities.
The affected area is still reeling from a February 3 attack by suspected terrorists, which reportedly left nearly 200 people dead and about 176 others abducted, further compounding security concerns among residents.
“The sound of the explosion was terrifying. People started running in different directions. We are living in fear,” a resident told THEWILL.
Efforts to get confirmation from the Kwara State Police Command were unsuccessful as calls to its spokesperson were not answered as of press time.
However, the Kwara State Government confirmed the development, describing it as a disturbing incident in a region already battling security challenges.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the explosion occurred when the IED detonated as a vehicle passed over it.
“The IED went off as a vehicle drove over it on Monday morning,” Ajakaye said, adding that the explosion occurred along a road outside the Woro community.
Also confirming the incident, the Special Assistant on Media to the Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, ZulQharnain Shero Musa, said the explosion resulted in casualties, although the full extent remains unclear.
“There was an explosion around Woro this morning which claimed lives, but the exact number of casualties is still unclear,” Musa stated.
Meanwhile, authorities have urged residents to remain calm as security agencies intensify surveillance in the area to prevent further attacks.
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