An explosion killed one man in the Obinwanne Community of Njaba Local Government Area, Imo State, on Thursday.
Viral videos shared online shortly after the blast showed the victim writhing in pain with severe leg injuries.
In the footage, several unidentified residents accused the victim of attempting to plant a bomb in a nearby market before it detonated. They alleged that the man, identified as Chinworeke Mmadu, was working with a terror group claiming to be Biafra agitators.
The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, the device exploded prematurely while the victim was carrying it. He said officers launched an investigation to determine the man’s motive and quickly restored order in the area after responding to a distress call.
“Upon receiving the report, officers from Njaba Divisional Headquarters immediately mobilised to the scene,” Okoye stated.
Two passers-by injured by the blast were taken to hospital for treatment, he added.
Deputy Commissioner of Police for Operations, Hamzat Abdulkadir, visited the scene alongside officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit.
“The area was thoroughly searched and declared safe for public use,” Okoye said.
Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma wished the injured a swift recovery and assured residents that the police remained committed to protecting lives and property.
He urged the public to stay calm, remain vigilant, and provide timely information to support ongoing security efforts.
