Battery Explosion Near Mogadishu Cantonment: One Dead, Two Injured in Abuja Incident

A mechanical accident involving a dry cell battery near the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja on Monday has left one person dead and two others injured, dispelling initial fears of a terrorist attack.

The explosion occurred at approximately 2:32 p.m. beneath the pedestrian bridge close to the main checkpoint of the heavily secured military facility. The location is a common drop-off point for passengers heading into the cantonment on foot.

Security sources revealed that a mechanic working with a dry cell battery was involved in the incident. The battery suddenly exploded, fatally wounding a nearby bystander and injuring two others. The victims were promptly transported to the Defence Medical Centre (DMC) for emergency medical treatment.

Panic and confusion initially swept through the area, with early reports speculating a possible suicide bombing. However, a thorough investigation by Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts and officers of the Nigeria Police Force confirmed that the blast was not caused by an improvised explosive device (IED).

“The explosion was due to a mechanical fault involving a dry cell battery. There is no indication of terrorist involvement,” a security official stated.

Authorities cordoned off the area shortly after the incident to rule out any further danger. The remains of the deceased were recovered and taken for formal examination.

Security presence around the Mogadishu Cantonment has since been increased as a precautionary measure. Officials have assured residents and commuters that there is no current terrorist threat linked to the explosion.

An official statement from the military is expected to be released as investigations continue into the exact cause of the battery malfunction and how similar incidents can be avoided in the future.