In a significant development, the Nigerian Army has entered the final phase of its operation, codenamed “EXERCISE CLEAN SWEEP,” aimed at clearing remnants of unexploded ordnances from the site of the 2002 Ikeja Cantonment Bomb Blast.
The exercise, which began on October 10, 2023, has already yielded substantial results, with the recovery and professional disposal of 642 unexploded ordnances on October 27, 2023, at the NA Range in Owode Ajilete.
Having completed the search and recovery phase, the operation has now transitioned to the critical final inspection of the site.
Following the outlined plan presented during the Inauguration Press briefing and Flag Off by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the ultimate Unexploded Ordnance Disposal (UXO) task is scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, at the Nigerian Army Range in Owode Ajilete, Ogun State.
As part of this disposal effort, there will be a movement of UXOs from Ikeja Cantonment to the NA Range, accompanied by controlled detonation exercises that may produce loud sounds.
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, assured the public, especially those residing in Owode, Ajilete, and surrounding areas, that necessary safety measures have been implemented.
Citizens are urged not to panic upon hearing explosions but to continue with their normal activities.
This final phase marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety of the community and the complete elimination of potential risks associated with the unexploded ordnances.
The Nigerian Army remains committed to the well-being of the public throughout the duration of this crucial exercise.