Federal Government Launches Investigation After DICON Explosion in Kaduna

The Federal Government has established a special committee to investigate the explosion at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) facility in Kurmin Gwari, Kaduna State.

The blast occurred on Saturday during the final phase of a controlled destruction of expired explosives and hazardous materials, including ammonium nitrate, primer caps, and propellants. Two workers, including a military officer, died, and four others were injured.

DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, stated that the situation has been brought under control. Kabir Adamu, former Head of Security at the Senate and now Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Ltd., described the explosion as “worrisome” and said there is no current evidence of sabotage. He also emphasised that safety standards in collecting, storing, and disposing of such dangerous materials need urgent review.

The committee will investigate the causes, adherence to safety protocols, and possible lapses in handling expired ordnance. Officials have urged the public to await the committee’s findings before drawing conclusions, while authorities highlighted the importance of strengthening regulatory oversight in facilities dealing with explosives.

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