EXPLOSION ROCKS DICON FACTORY IN KADUNA, ONE DEAD, SEVERAL INJURED

A devastating explosion shook the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kaduna’s Kakuri Industrial Layout on Saturday, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The blast, whose cause is still under investigation, was powerful enough to be felt across several parts of the city, including Chikun and Kaduna South Local Government Areas.

Eyewitnesses described the explosion as massive, with tremors shaking surrounding buildings and prompting residents to flee in panic. “I heard a very big blast that shook the surrounding buildings. People started running, thinking it was a bomb,” a resident told Vanguard.

The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, including the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna, for treatment. DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, confirmed the incident occurred around 10 a.m. while specialists were disposing of expired materials like Ammonium Nitrate and propellants.

“The neighbouring community is assured that DICON, as a responsible and professional organisation, has institutionalised operational safety to the highest level. Residents can go about their normal business,” Sambo stated.

The Defence Headquarters has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, with the Chief of Defence Staff expressing condolences to the deceased’s family and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. A Board of Inquiry has been instituted to prevent future occurrences.