The mystery surrounding the explosion that rocked Mushin, Lagos, on June 22 has been resolved, with the Lagos Police Command confirming that the incident was caused by a mechanical failure and not an improvised explosive device (IED), terrorist attack or any form of criminal activity.
The development followed an extensive forensic and technical investigation launched after preliminary observations at the scene raised concerns that the explosion may have involved an explosive device.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, Fatai Tijani, said findings by the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit conclusively ruled out the use of explosives, terrorism, sabotage or any criminal act.
According to him, the investigation involved a detailed examination of the affected vehicle, analysis of recovered fragments and damage patterns, collection and evaluation of physical evidence, as well as interviews with relevant witnesses.
Tijani said investigators found no traces of explosive materials, detonators, initiation systems or explosive residues, adding that the vehicle also showed none of the structural deformation, fragmentation patterns, crater effects or displacement typically associated with bomb attacks.
He explained that the incident resulted from the catastrophic failure of a pressurised mechanical component located outside the vehicle, which triggered a sudden release of energy that shattered the front passenger-side glass panels and caused minor injuries to the occupant.
“Based on these findings, the incident has been professionally classified as a Mechanical Explosion,” the commissioner said, noting that the case had been officially reclassified from a suspected IED incident.
He reassured residents that there was no evidence linking the incident to terrorism, insurgency, sabotage or any threat to public safety, stressing that there was no cause for alarm.
The commissioner commended members of the public who promptly alerted security and emergency agencies, as well as emergency responders and technical personnel whose swift actions and professionalism aided the investigation.
Tijani further assured Lagos residents that all reported explosions and related incidents would continue to receive thorough professional scrutiny, reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to transparency, professionalism and factual reporting in the discharge of its responsibility to protect lives and property.