An explosion in the Ayobo area of Lagos State resulted in the death of one person and left three others injured after a scavenger reportedly tampered with military grenades. The incident occurred on Thursday, causing panic among residents as emergency responders rushed to the scene.
According to reports, the explosion happened when a scrap metal collector unknowingly handled the dangerous explosives. Witnesses said the blast was sudden and powerful, shaking nearby buildings and sending people running for safety. Local authorities confirmed that the explosion was linked to discarded military grenades, although it remains unclear how the explosives ended up in the area.
Emergency services, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the police, responded swiftly to the incident. Officials secured the area to prevent further danger and began an investigation into how the grenades were obtained. The injured victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the deceased individual was transported to a morgue.
Residents expressed concern over the presence of military-grade explosives in their community. Many feared that other dangerous items could still be scattered in the area, posing a continued threat. Authorities assured the public that they were working to determine the source of the explosives and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, seeking to understand how the grenades came into the possession of the scavenger. Security experts have warned about the dangers of unregulated scavenging, particularly when dealing with unknown or potentially hazardous materials. Some residents called for stricter regulations on the collection of scrap metal to prevent similar tragedies.
Lagos State authorities urged the public to be cautious when handling unidentified objects, especially in areas where scrap materials are commonly collected. They also advised anyone who encounters suspicious items to immediately alert law enforcement rather than attempting to handle them.
The explosion is the latest in a series of safety concerns related to abandoned or improperly disposed of explosives. Experts emphasized the need for better disposal methods for military equipment to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. The Nigerian military has not yet commented on how the grenades may have ended up in the area, but officials are expected to provide further details as the investigation progresses.
Residents of Ayobo are calling for increased security and better waste disposal management to ensure their safety. Some have also urged authorities to educate scavengers and other workers in the informal sector about the risks associated with handling unknown objects.
As investigations continue, authorities have reassured the public that measures are being taken to prevent such incidents from happening again. Meanwhile, the affected community remains on high alert, hoping for swift action to address their concerns.
