Niran Odufayo
The Lagos State Police Command has declared the scene of the recent explosion at 40 Taiwo Street, Idi-Araba in the Mushin area, safe and secured. The explosion, which occurred on Thursday, April 3, 2025, claimed the life of a scrap scavenger and left three others injured.
In a statement, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Benjamin Hundeyin, said the explosion happened when a scrap metal dealer attempted to cut a metal object—unbeknownst to him, a military-grade grenade—which detonated, leading to the fatal blast.
Following the incident, the area was immediately cordoned off and secured. Experts from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit of the Police, in collaboration with the Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) Squadron of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, swiftly moved in to assess and render the scene safe.
“Remnants of one exploded grenade and two active grenades were professionally and safely evacuated from the location to the Police EOD-CBRN Base Headquarters,” Mr. Hundeyin revealed.
He explained that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the origin of the explosive device and prevent future occurrences. The affected victims are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, extended condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He urged Lagosians to remain calm, assuring that there is no further threat in the area.
“The CP reassures all residents that the scene and its surroundings have been thoroughly swept and cleared by the Nigeria Police EOD-CBRN Unit. There is no cause for alarm,” Hundeyin stated.
The Command also issued a public advisory, particularly to those involved in scavenging and scrap metal trading, to exercise extreme caution and report any suspicious or unidentified metal objects to the nearest police station.
“The safety of our communities is a shared responsibility. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and proactive,” the statement concluded.