The Federal Government has set up a committee to investigate the explosion that occurred at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) complex in Kaduna State.
Security expert Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Ltd. and former Head of Security at the Senate, confirmed this during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
The blast, which struck the factory in the Kurmin Gwari area of Kaduna metropolis on Saturday, killed at least two people, including a military officer, and injured four others.
DICON’s spokesperson, Maria Sambo, explained that the incident happened during the final phase of a controlled destruction of expired explosives and hazardous materials such as ammonium nitrate, primer caps, and propellants. She assured the public that the situation was under control.
Adamu described the incident as “worrisome” but praised the government’s response. He noted that while there is no evidence yet of sabotage, a formal investigation has been launched to establish the cause.
He stressed that the explosion could have been prevented, highlighting safety lapses in the collection, storage, and disposal of explosive materials. According to him, Nigeria’s drive to boost local weapons production has increased activity at DICON, making safety standards even more critical.
“The explosion could have been prevented, but until the committee concludes its investigation, it would be premature to draw conclusions,” he said.
Adamu also pointed to broader risks tied to weapons manufacturing, recalling the 2002 Ikeja cantonment explosion as a reminder of the importance of strict safety procedures.
While official figures put fatalities at one, some sources reported higher casualties. Authorities have urged patience until the investigation is complete.
