On Tuesday, an explosion reportedly shook a terminal market in Jos, Plateau State.
The situation, which sent shockwaves across the surrounding area, reportedly led to the temporary shutdown of businesses as residents were asked to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
Counter-insurgence expert Zagazola Makama confirmed the incident via his X handle (Formerly Twitter) and revealed that there had been no reported casualty as of press time.
Security personnel were also reported to have been stationed at key entry and exit points on Old Juth Road (near the new Orthopaedic Hospital) to control movement during a search.
“The anti-bomb squad responded swiftly, reported to have discovered that it was a tyre that busted forcing people to scamper for safety.
“This is the information we have confirmed so far. Additional updates may be provided by the authorities as more details emerge,” Makama noted.
Reacting to the situation, the Plateau Police Command clarified that despite the reported explosion, its anti-bomb squad had found the spot of the explosion to be safe and free of any explosive devices.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Plateau Police Command, Alfred Alabo, the police said, “At exactly 8:20 a.m., we received a report of a shallow dug hole suspected to be planted with an IED at Murtala Way beside the old site of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).
“The rumour created panic among the residents of the state.
“Upon receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Emmanuel Adesina, immediately mobilised the Anti-Bomb Squad to the scene to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
“On reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned and our team began examination and the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices.”
Alabo noted that the commissioner of police had also visited the scene, calling on the residents to go about their usual businesses and other activities without fear, insisting that the area was safe.