At least five people have been confirmed dead, while 15 others have suffered injuries from an explosion involving a military-grade mortar bomb in the Eastern Bypass area of Kano.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, leading to a swift response from emergency services and security forces.

Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, the Commissioner of Police for Kano State, arrived at the scene shortly after the explosion and suggested that the blast may have originated from military ordnance that was likely mishandled or improperly transported.

“I received a report of a serious incident. Upon my arrival, I found it to be an explosion, possibly a military mortar bomb. Fifteen individuals were injured, and unfortunately, five lost their lives,” he stated.

CP Bakori added that the casualties were swiftly removed from the scene, and those who needed medical attention were transported to the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH).
“The situation is still under investigation, but we suspect the vehicle involved may have come from Yobe State,” he said.

“Preliminary findings suggest that the explosive material was being transported by a trailer from Yobe, but it remains unclear whether the vehicle was carrying military personnel or civilians,” he added.

The police commissioner stressed that authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the explosion or the ownership of the explosives.

“Security agencies are currently investigating the incident. More details will be available when the investigation concludes,” he said, encouraging everyone to stay calm. As investigations continue, the area has been secured to guarantee public safety, with security operatives keeping a close eye at the site of the explosion.