In an official announcement, the Nigerian Army revealed plans to dispose of the unexploded ordnance recovered from the site of the 2002 Ikeja Cantonment Bomb Blast at the Army Range in Owode Ajilete, Ogun State.
According to Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, the disposal operation is scheduled for October 27. He mentioned that the clearance of remnants of unexploded ordnances from the blast site commenced on October 10 as part of “Exercise Clean Sweep.”
The exercise has made significant progress in clearing the area and has resulted in the recovery of various types of unexploded ordnance, which now require proper disposal. Lt.-Col. Ayeni emphasised that the operation aligns with the plan set forth during its initial flag-off on October 10, presided over by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
“The Nigerian Army will be conducting disposal of recovered Unexploded Ordnances at the Nigerian Army Range in Owode Ajilete, Ogun State, on Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” stated Ayeni. He added that this would involve the movement of the unexploded ordnances from Ikeja Cantonment to the NA Range in Owode Ajilete, Ogun State.
Due to the nature of the disposal process, loud sounds are expected to be heard during the exercise. Lt.-Col. Ayeni reassured the public that these sounds are part of the standard disposal routine and should not raise any security concerns. He emphasised that residents of Owode Ajilete and its environs should continue with their daily activities as usual.
Furthermore, Ayeni assured the public that all necessary safety measures have been put in place to guarantee the safety of lives and properties throughout the duration of the exercise. The Nigerian Army is committed to conducting the disposal operation with the utmost professionalism and in adherence to established safety protocols.
