A devastating explosion rocked the Abakpa area of Kaduna North Local Government Area on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two children and the injury of several others. The incident, which occurred near the old site of the Nigerian Defence Academy, initially sparked widespread panic, with some locals believing it to be a bomb blast. However, the Kaduna State Police Command later clarified that the incident was caused by the discharge of a locally made firearm, a Dane gun, and not an explosion as previously thought.
The victims, Imam, aged 13, and Nasrin, 6, lost their lives in the tragic incident, while three other residents sustained injuries. One of the injured, identified as Abubakar Muhammed, a 12-year-old boy, died from his injuries shortly after the incident. Eyewitnesses described the shockwave from the incident and the harrowing scenes of chaos that followed.
“I was taking my bath when I heard the explosion and rushed outside to see what had happened,” said one resident. “I saw Imam, and I tried to take him to the hospital, but he died before we could get there.”
The police received reports of the incident around 8:30 AM, and officers swiftly responded to the scene. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, later confirmed that preliminary investigations revealed that the deaths were caused by a discharge from a Dane gun. Hassan also stated that an informant had been arrested in connection with the incident, which was found to be linked to an ongoing investigation involving banditry and illegal firearms.
“Contrary to initial reports, experts confirmed that the incident was not an explosion. Preliminary investigations indicate that a locally made firearm (Dane gun) was discharged, resulting in the tragic loss of life,” Hassan explained.
A thorough assessment of the scene was carried out by the Commissioner of Police, the Garrison Commander, and other senior officials. The investigation is ongoing, with police ensuring that the public is kept informed of any developments.
The incident has caused considerable concern in the community, sparking renewed debates about the proliferation of Dane guns and the lack of adequate controls over such weapons in Kaduna State.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to those injured,” the police statement read.
This tragic event follows a history of violent incidents in Kaduna, which has seen its fair share of deadly attacks, including a 2012 suicide bombing targeting Christians and a gas explosion in Sabon Tasha in 2020 that resulted in multiple fatalities.
While the investigation continues, the Kaduna police have reassured the public that steps will be taken to address the issue of illegal firearms and prevent further incidents. Residents, meanwhile, remain shaken and are calling for more stringent measures to curb the use of unregulated weapons in the region.
