Christmas night explosion rocks Offa community, injures five

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin –

A suspected explosion on Christmas night rocked a community in the Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, leaving about five people injured, including a couple and their young daughter.

The incident, which residents initially suspected to be a bomb blast, occurred at Yidi, a Muslim prayer ground along the Offa–Ijagbo Road. The explosion caused panic in the area and led to injuries and property damage.

A woman identified as Iya Ayo and her daughter, Aisha, were seriously injured and hospitalised at the nearby First Care Hospital. Neighbours said the woman sustained severe injuries, while another boy reportedly lost part of his ear in the incident.

Eyewitnesses said residents were already asleep when the explosion occurred. According to them, Iya Ayo’s breast, stomach and arms were pierced by nails believed to have been propelled by the blast.

An artisan was also reportedly injured, while four adjoining buildings were seriously damaged by the explosion.

A petty trader, identified as Madam Joy, said the object was seen approaching with bright lights before crashing into an upstairs building and damaging three other structures.

Reacting to the incident, the commissioner of police in Kwara State, Adekimi Ojo, dismissed rumours that the explosion was caused by a bomb dropped by the American military, saying there was no bomb scare or plane crash in Offa.

He explained that the incident involved an ordinance, adding that police IED experts had evacuated the debris and commenced discreet investigations, assuring residents that the situation was under control.