Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau has dismissed rumours of an explosion around the old Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) site, near the Terminus Market in Jos North Local Government Area.
This is contained in a statement by Mr Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor on Tuesday in Jos.
It was earlier reported an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that exploded at the old JUTH by the Terminus Market.
About a decade ago, a twin explosion occurred near Terminus Market, resulting in significant loss of life and hundreds of injuries.
Reacting, the governor described the alarm as false, triggered by a group of individuals who misinterpreted a heap of polythene bags as a potential threat.
He said the false alarm sent fear and panic among citizens in the area.
Mutfwang said that security agencies, including the anti-bomb squad from the Police Command in Plateau responded swiftly, conducted a search operation at the scene and cordoned it.
“After an exhaustive inspection, no evidence of any explosive device was found,” he said.
The governor urged Plateau citizens to remain vigilant and act as responsible ambassadors of the state, upholding its reputation and rich heritage.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring an enduring security across the state, and to work tirelessly to restore peace and stability in the area.
Mutfwang called on the people to channel their efforts in supporting the government’s mission for a sustainable peace and prosperity.
He encouraged residents, especially those near the terminus market to continue their daily activities without fear.
Similarly, Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, said the report of the explosion is false.
DSP Alfred said: “In the early hours of today the 12th day of November 2024 at exactly 08:20am, the Plateau State Police Command received a report of a shallow dug hole suspected to be planted with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at Murtala Mohammed Way beside Old JUTH fence which created panic among the residents of the State.
“Upon receiving this report, the command immediately ordered the Area Commander Metro and the Officer in Charge of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit aka Anti-Bomb Squad to mobilize a team of bomb technicians to the scene in collaboration with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), “C” Division to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
“On reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned and our EOD Team began examination. Upon conclusion of the examination, the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices. The Plateau State Commissioner of Police and other members of his management team also visited the scene for an on the spot assessment.
“The CP wishes to commend the good people of Plateau State for being Security conscious, and cooperating with the Police throughout the exercise. He therefore urges them to go about their normal business activities without fear, as the area is safe and free of any threats to lives and properties, the command added.”
