Panic in Abuja as Explosion Rocks Bus Stop Near Mogadishu Cantonment – Nigerian Army Urges Calm

 

Residents of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT), particularly those living and working along the busy Abuja-Nyanya highway, were thrown into a state of panic on the morning of Monday, May 26, 2025, following an explosion at a bus stop directly in front of Mogadishu Cantonment, a major military installation.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, caused widespread fear and confusion among commuters and passersby, many of whom fled the scene in terror, unsure of the source and motive behind the explosion.

What Happened? A Sudden Blast Shakes Abuja

Eyewitnesses who were present at the scene described hearing a loud bang that instantly sent shockwaves across the area. According to several accounts, the explosion occurred at a public bus stop located just across from the heavily guarded Mogadishu Barracks, along the Abuja-Nyanya Expressway, a major route used daily by thousands of people traveling between the city center and the outskirts of Abuja.

One of the commuters who witnessed the blast said, “It was around 6:30 am. People were already lining up to board buses when we heard a loud explosion. Everybody started running. Some people even fell while trying to escape.”

Amid the initial confusion, it became apparent that the explosion had resulted in the death of a suspected individual. Several reports suggest that the blast may have been caused by a suspected suicide bomber, although this has not been officially confirmed by the authorities as of the time of writing.

Nigerian Army Confirms Explosion, Says Situation is Under Control

Shortly after the incident, the Nigerian Army released a brief statement through its verified social media handles, acknowledging the occurrence of the explosion but reassuring the public that there was no cause for panic.

The statement read:

“Explosion at Bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment Abuja. Situation Under Control. Details Later.”

While the statement was short and did not provide specific details about the nature or cause of the explosion, it served to reassure residents that military and security forces were on the ground and managing the situation.

Security Forces Swiftly Respond, Area Cordon Off for Investigation

In response to the explosion, security personnel quickly arrived at the scene to assess the situation and prevent further panic. The area around the bus stop was cordoned off, with a heavy presence of soldiers, police officers, and bomb disposal experts observed at the location.

The quick response was praised by some commuters and residents, who acknowledged the risks associated with such a sensitive area — a location just across from a military barracks and close to a major transit route.

One military source at the scene, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, said: “We are conducting a preliminary sweep to determine whether this was a suicide bombing or if the explosive was planted. Right now, the area is secure, and civilians are safe.”

Investigation Underway: What Could Be Behind the Blast?

As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army, has begun an investigation into the explosion. Authorities have promised a thorough probe to determine the exact cause of the blast and whether it was a targeted terrorist attack or an isolated incident.

Given the history of bombings in Nigeria — especially those linked to terror groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State’s West Africa Province) — public speculation has quickly spread, with many concerned about the potential return of similar attacks in the capital.

However, security analysts have urged Nigerians to remain calm and await official findings. According to one analyst, “It’s important not to jump to conclusions. The military and security agencies have significantly improved their counter-terrorism strategies in recent years, and this incident will be handled with professionalism.”

A Painful Reminder of Nigeria’s History With Urban Bombings

The May 26 Abuja explosion is a chilling reminder of Nigeria's painful history with urban bombings, especially in the Federal Capital Territory. In April 2014, a similar bombing occurred at the Nyanya bus terminal, just a few kilometers from the site of Monday’s blast. That attack killed over 70 people and was claimed by Boko Haram.

Since then, Nigerian security forces have made significant gains in pushing back against terrorist groups, particularly in the North-East. However, sporadic attacks in other regions — including the North-Central — have continued to raise concerns about national security.

For Abuja residents, the fear of a return to such dark days remains palpable. A shop owner near the bus stop told NaijaRush, “After the 2014 attack, we’ve always been alert. But this one caught everyone off guard. We’re just praying it’s not the beginning of something worse.”

Public Reaction: Calls for Increased Security Measures

Following the explosion, there have been renewed calls for the Nigerian government to strengthen security across the capital. Many residents took to social media to express their fears and demand greater protection for commuters who rely on public transport every day.

A Twitter user wrote: “How can there be an explosion right in front of a military barracks? This shows we’re not as safe as we think. Abuja needs better surveillance and intelligence.”

Others urged the Federal Government and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to invest more in modern security infrastructure, including CCTV cameras, bomb detectors at bus terminals, and rapid response units in strategic areas.

What Residents Should Do: Staying Safe and Informed

In light of the incident, security experts have advised residents to remain vigilant, avoid crowded or suspicious areas, and report any unusual activity to security agencies.

The Nigerian Army and police have also encouraged the public to refrain from spreading panic through unverified social media posts. Instead, they urge people to rely on official channels for updates regarding the situation.

An officer from the FCT Police Command emphasized: “We understand the fear this kind of event causes, but spreading rumors only makes it worse. Please report facts and let us do our job.”

Conclusion: Caution, Calm, and Continuous Vigilance

As the investigation continues, residents of Abuja and the broader Nigerian population are watching closely. The explosion near the Mogadishu Cantonment has shaken public confidence in the safety of the capital, but the swift response by the Nigerian Army is a signal that security forces remain alert and committed to preventing further incidents.

For now, the message from the military is clear: “Situation Under Control.” But as always in matters of national security, continuous vigilance, public cooperation, and transparency from authorities will be key in ensuring lasting peace and preventing future threats.

NaijaRush will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.