Bomb Blasts Hit Nigerian Independence Celebrations

An online report has just reported that a loud explosion, probably involving two vehicles, has occurred in the central district of Abuja, the federal capital.

The scene of a bomb blast in Abuja during the 50th independence anniversary celebrations.

The area is about 10 minutes away from the Eagles Square, venue of the Nigeria at 50 celebration. There are unconfirmed reports of some deaths in the incident.

Police have deployed a bomb squad to investigate the explosion while fire service officials now visibly patrol the area.

The Niger Delta militant group, MEND, in an early report did sent an email message of its plan to disrupt the festivities.

Police Force PRO, Emmanuel Ojukwu, confirmed that there are 8 dead and 5 injured. All have been taken to Asokoro and Maitama general hospital. The explosions happened at Bayelsa state house in Central Area.

It is however unclear whether the group has anything to do with this explosion, as no group has claimed responsibility.

Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) had earlier said it has successfully planted explosive devices at the venue of Nigeria’s 50th Independence celebration in capital city, Abuja and warning invited dignitaries to evacuate and stay way from ‘vehicles and trash bins.’

“With due respect to all invited guests, dignitaries and attendees of the 50th independence anniversary of Nigeria being held today, Friday, October 1, 2010 at the Eagle Square Abuja, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is asking everyone to begin immediate evacuation of the entire area within the next 30 minutes. This warning expires after 10.30Hrs,” the group said in an emailed statement signed by Gbomo Jomo.

“Several explosive devices have been successfully planted in and around the venue by our operatives working inside the government security services. In evacuating the area, keep a safe distance from vehicles and trash bins. There is nothing worth celebrating after 50 years of failure.

“For 50 years, the people of the Niger Delta have had their land and resources stolen from them. The constitution before independence which offered resource control was mutilated by illegal military governments and this injustice is yet to be addressed,” it said.

2 October 2010|Vanguard|