January 06, (THEWILL) — Panic gripped residents of Ganaru community in the Zugurma District of Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State on Tuesday, after farmers discovered a suspected explosive device believed to have been planted by terrorists.
The farmers reportedly made the discovery while heading to their farms for routine agricultural activities. According to a community source, the suspicious object was found planted along a roadside leading to the farmlands, prompting the farmers to immediately raise the alarm and alert community leaders.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Mashegu Local Government Area, Jibrin Egade, said the affected area had been cordoned off to prevent residents and commuters from accessing it, in order to avert a possible explosion that could lead to casualties.
Egade expressed shock over the development, noting that Ganaru community had not been known for serious security challenges. He said the discovery caused widespread fear and anxiety among residents.
“The community is alarmed because this is not an area with a history of such incidents. We have restricted movement around the location and promptly informed security agencies to take necessary action,” he said.
The Niger State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Elleman, also confirmed the incident, clarifying that police findings indicated the discovery of one suspected explosive device, contrary to claims by some villagers that three were found.
CP Elleman disclosed that the command had deployed bomb disposal experts to the scene to examine and safely evacuate or detonate the device if required. He urged residents to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, assuring them that the situation was under control.
“Our bomb experts are already on ground to professionally handle the device. Members of the public should not panic, as adequate measures have been put in place to ensure their safety”, the police commissioner said.
The latest development comes barely two days after at least 42 persons were reportedly killed in a terrorist attack in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
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