By Uzair Adam
Following a series of late-night explosions at the Giwa Barracks armoury in Maiduguri, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has advised residents to avoid picking up strange objects that may be remnants of the blasts.
The explosions occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, sending shockwaves across Maiduguri and sparking panic in multiple communities as loud bangs and flames lit up the night.
Military authorities later attributed the incident to intense heat, which reportedly caused the munitions to detonate.
During a press briefing after inspecting the scene, Major General Abubakar cautioned residents—especially those living in Jiddari Polo, Fori, and nearby areas—to remain alert and report any suspicious fragments or debris to security operatives.
“Some of the items scattered by the blasts may seem harmless but could be extremely dangerous,” he warned.He was joined at the site by senior officers, including the Commanding Officer of the 73 Battalion, Lt Col N. Dalha, and the Joint Investigation Centre Commander, Colonel Ahmad.
They confirmed that the only armoury within the barracks was completely destroyed, despite combined firefighting efforts by the military and federal and state fire services.
While acknowledging the damage, Abubakar praised the swift and courageous response by troops and emergency personnel, which he said helped prevent further devastation.
He called for calm and assured the public that the situation had been contained and there was no ongoing threat.