JUST IN: Explosion rocks Kwara community hours after US airstrikes in Sokoto

Explosions reportedly occurred in the ancient town of Offa, Kwara State, late Thursday night, Christmas Day, destroying property and causing fear and tension in the area.

The Tribune gathered that the explosions took place at two different locations around midnight. Eyewitnesses said several buildings were affected near the Eid praying ground, while a second explosion occurred near Solid Worth Hotel, about a five-minute walk from the first location.

It was also reported that an undetonated explosive device was later found at the second site, prompting security agencies to cordon off the affected areas. As of the time of this report, the source and nature of the explosions have not been officially confirmed.

Confirming the incident, the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of Offa Local Government, Abiola Azeez Babatunde, said the council is aware of reports circulating about a suspected ordnance-related incident near the Offa Eid praying ground.

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In a statement, the local government said security agencies have secured the scene and commenced investigations. The statement also noted that the chairman of Offa Local Government, Hon. Suleiman Olatunji Omituntun, visited the affected areas shortly after the incident to assess the situation.

The council chairman urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, advising the public to rely on credible and official sources of information to avoid panic.

The Offa Local Government assured residents of its commitment to their safety and said it will continue to work closely with relevant authorities until investigations are concluded.

The explosions occurred just hours after United States President Donald Trump announced U.S. airstrikes against ISIS targets in parts of north-west Nigeria, including Sokoto State, on Christmas Day.

However, police authorities have yet to establish any link between the Offa incident and the U.S. strikes.

As of this morning, no casualties have been reported, and security agencies continue their investigations.

Speaking with The Tribune about the development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the investigation has already begun. She added that the state Commissioner of Police was on his way to Offa for an on-the-spot assessment.

The PPRO said that an official statement on the incident would be released thereafter.