In a significant security development, the Lagos State Police Command successfully neutralized an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) discovered at the fence of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service in Ikeja, Lagos. The incident occurred less than 24 hours before a planned nationwide protest, slated to run from August 1 to August 10, 2024.
The explosive device was discovered by a police officer attached to the Explosive Ordinance Depot (EOD) Base in Ikeja. The officer observed a suspicious individual driving an unregistered Toyota Corolla near the fence of the FOU. The suspect was seen alighting from the vehicle and carefully placing a bag by the fence before swiftly leaving the scene. The vigilant officer immediately alerted the EOD team, who quickly mobilized to the location, confirmed the presence of the IED, and rendered it safe through controlled detonation. The residual fragments of the device have been collected for further forensic analysis and investigation.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, confirmed the incident through the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin. Commissioner Fayoade commended the swift response of the EOD team and assured the public that the police are fully committed to maintaining security and preventing any disruptions during the upcoming protests.
Despite the police warnings and the foiled bomb attack, residents of Lagos have commenced their protests, expressing deep frustration over the rising cost of living and economic hardship in the country. Organized by the “Take It Back Movement,” the protests have seen significant gatherings at notable locations such as the Ojuelegba Bridge. Protesters are voicing their discontent with the economic situation, carrying placards and chanting slogans demanding urgent government action.
The Lagos State Police Command had earlier issued a cautionary statement urging residents to refrain from participating in the protests to avoid disrupting public order and economic activities. Commissioner Fayoade emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and warned that any attempt to infringe on the rights of others would be met with legal consequences.
This incident underscores the heightened tensions and security challenges facing Nigeria as it navigates through a period of significant economic difficulties and public dissent. The police have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens and ensuring that lawful protests do not escalate into violence or disorder.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Muchee News.
Muchee News: Your Trusted Source for Accurate and Timely News
