August 1 Protest: IGP Reacts To Explosive Device Found, Detonated In Lagos

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has praised officers for discovering and safely detonating an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way in Ikeja, Lagos State.

The operation was executed by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Unit of the Nigeria Police Force on Wednesday.

Naija News reports that this execution comes less than 24 hours before a planned nationwide protest against harsh government policies.

In a statement released by Police Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or behaviour.

“Following a recent incident involving the discovery and successful detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on 31st July 2024, by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, along Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos, the Nigeria Police Force wishes to alert all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or objects to the nearest police station,” the statement read.

He emphasized the importance of public awareness and caution.

“All members of the public are urged to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings, reporting any unusual or suspicious behavior. If you encounter an unfamiliar or suspicious object, do not touch or move it. Instead, keep a safe distance and immediately inform the police.”

The police chief reassured the public of the force’s commitment to safety and security.

“The Nigeria Police reiterates that its foremost responsibility is to protect the lives and property of our citizens. While the Nigeria Police Force is working tirelessly to investigate further the source of the bearers of the IED planted in Lagos, dismantle their plans, and apprehend those involved, the cooperation of well-meaning members of the public is vital in these critical times.”

He highlighted the potential danger posed by the device.

“It’s pertinent to state that the intentions of the criminally minded individuals, who acted like terrorists for planting the IEDs at that strategic location, were purely to destroy houses, facilities, and innocent citizens who may traverse along the route where the items were recovered. It is not out of point, however, to be vigilant to detect such unusual packages or parcels in our vicinity to avert any ugly incidences.“