Maitama Explosion: FCT Police Confirm Incident Unrelated to Bombing

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dispelled rumors of a bomb explosion in Maitama, Abuja, on January 24, 2024, clarifying that the incident near a refuse dump outside the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) premises was not connected to explosive devices, contrary to social media claims.

According to SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police spokesperson, the explosion was caused by an overheated metal refuse container that activated under intense heat, leading to the incident around 11:45 am. The police promptly responded, deploying a rapid response team and members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to assess the situation.

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Preliminary findings revealed that the explosion resulted in injuries to two refuse evacuators, who are currently undergoing medical treatment at Maitama General Hospital. The FCT Police Command has urged the public to exercise caution and avoid using metal refuse bins, recommending the use of plastic or rubber containers for waste disposal to minimize the risk of incidents related to overheated metal refuse containers.

Contrary to initial speculations, reports indicate that the loud noise and eruption were caused by an overheated metallic waste bin at a dump site outside the Bureau of Public Enterprise premises in Maitama. The Police and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit were deployed to restore calm in the area.

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Meanwhile, the FCT Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has collaborated with the police in responding to the incident.

In summary, the FCT Police and FEMA have debunked bomb explosion rumors, attributing the incident to an overheated metal refuse container. Authorities advise the public to opt for plastic or rubber containers for waste disposal to mitigate the risk of similar incidents involving overheated metal refuse bins.