Explosive devices discovered inside Abia school

Explosive devices have reportedly been discovered inside a primary school in Afaraukwu, Umuahia North local government area of Abia State.

The state commissioner for information, John Kalu, said the discovery was made inside Union Primary School, a development that has led to the temporary close down of the school.

Mr Kalu in a statement on Thursday said while the explosive devices may be relics of the civil war era, owing to evidence of corrosion, investigation is ongoing to unravel the source and nature of the devices.

“Abia State Government is currently working with relevant security agencies in the state to unravel the source and nature of the suspected explosive devices found at Union Primary School, Afaraukwu in Umuahia North LGA,” he said. “While initial examination of the devices show evidence of corrosion leading to suspicion of the materials being relics of the civil war era, we are awaiting definite official report from the EOD squad of the Nigeria Police who are currently investigating the incident.

“Meanwhile, necessary measures have been taken to protect the pupils and staff of the school with security sweeps ongoing while the school is temporarily closed.

“Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed security agencies to embark on proactive checks in other vulnerable locations out of abundance of caution.

“While we are grateful to God that there is no harm to life or property, we urge citizens and residents to continue to maintain vigilance and report suspicious situations to security agents,” the commissioner added.