An explosion that rocked the Giwa military barracks in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Wednesday night was not the result of an enemy attack but was instead caused by a heat-induced reaction within the armoury, military sources have said.

Speaking to Zagazola Makama, sources from the Nigerian military High Command in Maiduguri clarified that the explosion and subsequent fire originated from a section of the barracks’ armoury, which was triggered by extreme heat.

“What occurred was an isolated incident triggered by excessive heat, which caused an explosion within the armoury,” one source said.

The sources dismissed widespread speculation on social media suggesting that the barracks had come under attack, urging the public to disregard such reports and avoid spreading misinformation that could heighten tension in the city.

“There is no cause for alarm. Our troops are fully alert and in control of the situation,” the sources added, assuring that military operations in Maiduguri remain unaffected and all facilities are secure.

Meanwhile, the Borno State Police Command has also weighed in on the incident, describing it as a “friendly-fire” occurrence.

In a statement released by police spokesperson Nahum Daso, the command confirmed that preliminary findings showed the explosions came from within the Giwa Barracks armoury.

“Following reports received of explosions heard in Maiduguri, preliminary investigations indicate that the detonation originated from a friendly-fire incident at Giwa Barracks armoury,” Daso stated. “No enemy attack recorded, and the security situation remains firmly under control.”

He further noted that security forces, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams, and the state fire service were at the scene working to extinguish the fire and prevent further damage.

“We call on members of the public to remain calm, as the situation is under control,” he said, adding that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.