Security agencies have commenced investigation into the collapse of buildings in Offa community of Kwara State allegedly caused by objects suspected to be military drones which fell from the sky at three different locations in the community.
Though the incident is yet to be linked to the United States airstrikes on bandits enclaves in Sokoto State, speculations indicate that it coincides with the airstrikes on Christmas day.
The incident caused palpable tension and widespread fear in the community as explosions rocked three parts of the town late Thursday night, destroying properties.
Reports said several buildings were affected around the Eid praying ground area of the community, while a second explosion was recorded near Solid Worth Hotel, about a five-minute walk from the first location.
Findings revealed that an undetonated explosive device was later discovered at the second location, prompting security agencies to cordon off the affected areas.
The source and nature of the explosions could not be officially confirmed at the time of this report.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Offa Local Government, Abiola Azeez Babatunde, who confirmed the incident, said “the council is aware of reports circulating about a suspected ordnance-related incident around the Offa Yidi praying ground.”
In a statement, the local government said security agencies have secured the scene and commenced investigations.
The statement revealed that the Executive Chairman of Offa Local Government Area, Suleiman Olatunji Omituntun, visited the affected areas shortly after the incident to assess the situation.
The council chairman, however, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, advising the public to rely on credible and official sources for information in order to avoid panic.
The local government assured residents of its commitment to their safety, asserting that it will continue to work closely with relevant authorities until investigations are concluded.
The explosions occurred barely hours after the United States President, Donald Trump, announced U.S. airstrikes against ISIS targets in parts of northwest Nigeria, including Sokoto State, on Christmas Day.
Authorities, however, are yet to establish any link between the Offa incident and the U.S. strikes.
As of this morning, no casualty has been reported, while investigations by security agencies continue.
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