Story of the Ikeja Bomb Blast — January 27, 2002

On a day like this, 27 January 2002, a devastating explosion rocked the Ikeja Military Cantonment in Lagos, changing Nigeria forever.

What started as a fire outbreak inside the military armory triggered a series of massive explosions, throwing the city into chaos and fear. Many residents thought Nigeria was under attack or that a coup was underway.

The blast was heard and felt up to 30 miles away. Tremors collapsed homes and shattered windows as far as 10 miles from the epicenter.

According to the Red Cross, at least 1,000 bodies were recovered, while many others were reported missing and never found.
Over 5,000 people were injured, and more than 12,000 residents were left homeless, with entire neighborhoods destroyed.

In panic, about 20,000 people fled Lagos on the night of the explosion. Survivors gradually returned over the following week to scenes of loss and devastation.

Military reports later stated that the disaster was caused by a bomb that detonated inside the armory, setting off other stored explosives.

In a moment that remains unforgettable, President Olusegun Obasanjo visited the Ikeja Cantonment barefoot, addressing victims and assessing the damage firsthand.

The Ikeja Bomb Blast remains one of the deadliest peacetime disasters in Nigerian history.

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#IkejaBombBlast
#January27
#NeverForget
#NigerianHistory
#Lagos
#NigeriaStories

If you want, I can also make it short

Story of the Ikeja Bomb Blast — January 27, 2002

On a day like this, 27 January 2002, a devastating explosion rocked the Ikeja Military Cantonment in Lagos, changing Nigeria forever.

What started as a fire outbreak inside the military armory triggered a series of massive explosions, throwing the city into chaos and fear. Many residents thought Nigeria was under attack or that a coup was underway.

The blast was heard and felt up to 30 miles away. Tremors collapsed homes and shattered windows as far as 10 miles from the epicenter.

According to the Red Cross, at least 1,000 bodies were recovered, while many others were reported missing and never found.
Over 5,000 people were injured, and more than 12,000 residents were left homeless, with entire neighborhoods destroyed.

In panic, about 20,000 people fled Lagos on the night of the explosion. Survivors gradually returned over the following week to scenes of loss and devastation.

Military reports later stated that the disaster was caused by a bomb that detonated inside the armory, setting off other stored explosives.

In a moment that remains unforgettable, President Olusegun Obasanjo visited the Ikeja Cantonment barefoot, addressing victims and assessing the damage firsthand.

The Ikeja Bomb Blast remains one of the deadliest peacetime disasters in Nigerian history. #IkejaBombBlast #January27 #NigerianHistory #NigeriaStories

BREAKING: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday met ex-military ruler Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) in Minna, Niger State, in a closed-door meeting amid growing political permutations ahead of the 2027 elections.

The brief meeting, held at Babangida’s hilltop residence, has sparked speculation about opposition realignment and emerging coalitions, including talks around Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. Both leaders have remained silent on the visit.

#BreakingNews #Obasanjo #IBB #NigeriaPolitics #2027Elections

Peter Obi Allegedly Recruited Bwala via Obasanjo to Join 2023 Presidential Campaign – Tinubu Adviser Speaks

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has revealed that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, reportedly reached out to former President Olusegun Obasanjo to persuade him to join Obi’s campaign. Bwala made the disclosure during an interview on The Clarity Zone podcast while responding to remarks allegedly made by Obi, who had reportedly described Bwala as a “character.”

Bwala dismissed the description as inoffensive, turning it around to describe Obi himself as the “character-in-chief,” accusing the former Anambra State governor of political theatrics. He further alleged that Obi’s supporters became disillusioned after the 2023 elections when their “fantasy” of his leadership collapsed, leading to aggressive social media attacks on critics.

Criticizing Obi’s record as governor, Bwala claimed that doctors in Anambra State went on strike due to poor funding and working conditions, and accused Obi of prioritizing personal financial savings over infrastructure development. He also alleged that Obi avoided clarifying whether he benefitted from dividends from a bank where he served as chairman.

On the claim that he had never visited Anambra, Bwala insisted he was well-acquainted with the area, naming roads and communities in the South-East to prove his familiarity. He detailed that Obasanjo had personally contacted him while he was abroad in London, urging him to join Obi’s campaign, with the communication facilitated by a named ambassador.

Bwala concluded that his claims were verifiable and that he remained unbothered by Obi’s remarks, emphasizing that his criticisms were based on substantive facts rather than personal attacks.

This revelation highlights lingering tensions and controversies from Nigeria’s 2023 elections, providing insight into behind-the-scenes political maneuvers and the dynamics between major political figures in the country.

PDP Plans Strategic Meetings with Peter Obi, Atiku, and Key Powerbrokers Ahead of 2027 Elections”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to engage with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other influential political figures as part of its strategy to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Ogidi, PDP South-South Chairman, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday.
Ogidi revealed that the party has already begun consultations with key political actors, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), to signal that the PDP remains relevant despite internal challenges. He stressed that meetings with Obi and Atiku, both former PDP stalwarts now aligned with other political platforms, are part of a deliberate effort to reconnect with major opposition figures.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar were previously PDP vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. The outreach reflects the PDP’s commitment to unifying opposition voices and strengthening its democratic credentials.
The PDP’s efforts coincide with ongoing preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections. On Tuesday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, the delegation received Jonathan’s assurance of continued loyalty and active support for the PDP.
Turaki described the former president’s commitment as “very reassuring and encouraging”, highlighting the PDP’s determination to reorganize, strengthen internal cohesion, and mobilize key political actors ahead of critical upcoming elections.
The PDP’s outreach initiative is viewed as a strategic move to solidify its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, heal internal divisions, and present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the years leading up to the 2027 polls.

Wabara Denies Dumping PDP for ADC Amid 2027 Election Speculations

Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has denied claims that he defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections. The rumours stemmed from a viral photo of Wabara with Peter Obi and ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, which circulated on social media. Wabara clarified that the image was taken in 2025 at Obasanjo’s Abeokuta residence and unrelated to any recent political event in Enugu. He accused detractors of spreading “fake news” to undermine him but reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, pledging to work toward restoring the party as the ruling national party in 2027. The incident highlights ongoing confusion and factional disputes surrounding Peter Obi’s defection from the Labour Party to the ADC.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has sent a strong message to the Turaki-led NWC amid intense battle with Nyesom Wike.

PDP Crisis: Obasanjo Ignores Wike-Led Faction, Advises Turaki’s NWC on Discipline, Unity and Party Rebuilding

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, to remain disciplined, steadfast, and focused on national interest amid the party’s deepening internal crisis. During a consultative visit to his Abeokuta residence, Obasanjo praised the Turaki-led leadership while pointedly ignoring the Wike-aligned faction, stressing that adherence to party rules is essential for survival and recovery. He urged the PDP to strengthen itself as a credible opposition, warning that Nigeria’s current political direction requires a strong alternative. In response, Turaki thanked Obasanjo for his guidance and reaffirmed the NWC’s commitment to reconciliation, unity, and repositioning the PDP ahead of future elections.

Peter Obi Calls for Independent Probe After Suspected Terrorists Allege Government Officials Supplied Arms, Logistics in Kwara State

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has demanded an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation following claims by suspected terrorists in Kwara State that they received ammunition and logistical support from government officials. Reacting to a viral video of arrested suspects making the allegations, Obi said the claims deepen Nigeria’s security crisis and raise serious questions about accountability. He cited past remarks by late General Sani Abacha and former President Olusegun Obasanjo to argue that modern surveillance and tracking tools should make terrorism easier to combat. Obi warned that persistent insecurity points to either complicity or leadership failure and urged Nigeria to prioritize competent, transparent leadership focused on protecting lives and property.

Obasanjo Returns to Aso Rock for Christmas Carols as Tinubu Is Absent

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo made his first visit to Aso Rock since Bola Tinubu assumed office, attending the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols hosted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. The visit comes amid Obasanjo’s strong criticism of Tinubu’s administration over worsening insecurity, while President Tinubu was notably absent from the religious event.

#Obasanjo #AsoRock #Tinubu #NigeriaPolitics

PDP Chairman Turaki Meets Obasanjo, Declares Party Battle-Ready For Ekiti, Osun Ahead Of 2027

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has signaled its readiness to reclaim power starting with off-season governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as part of its preparations for the 2027 general elections. National Chairman Taminu Turaki, leading a delegation of party leaders, met former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta for strategic consultations. Turaki emphasized the importance of party unity and learning from past leadership experience. The PDP aims to demonstrate its resurgence by winning Ekiti and Osun, positioning itself as a credible alternative to the ruling APC.

#PDP

#EkitiElections

#OsunElections

Obasanjo Attends Aso Rock Christmas Carols as Tinubu Skips Event Amid Rising Insecurity

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo attended the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at Aso Rock, hosted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, marking his first visit to the Presidential Villa since President Bola Tinubu assumed office. Obasanjo read a biblical passage during the service, while President Tinubu was absent, reportedly due to the religious nature of the event. The former president has recently criticized the Tinubu administration over escalating insecurity, including killings, kidnappings, and the government’s reliance on negotiations instead of decisive action against terrorists, highlighting Nigeria’s advanced drone capabilities.

#Obasanjo

#Tinubu

#NigeriaSecurity

Obasanjo Says Boko Haram War Endures Because Insecurity Has Become an Industry

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has asserted that Nigeria’s 15-year battle against Boko Haram has persisted because insecurity has become a lucrative “industry” benefiting actors within and outside government. Speaking during the Toyin Falola Interviews, Obasanjo criticised the country’s failure to apply a modern counterinsurgency strategy built on training, intelligence, technology, and specialised equipment. He revealed instances of internal sabotage, lack of trust from foreign partners, and missed negotiation opportunities—such as a 2011 ceasefire offer the government failed to pursue. Despite trillions spent on defence, insurgency, banditry, and mass abductions continue to ravage the North, worsening Nigeria’s security crisis.

Obasanjo Says U.S. Never Acted in Africa Without Informing Nigeria During His Presidency

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has claimed that during his time in office, the United States never took any major action in Africa without first informing Nigeria. Speaking at a youth mentorship retreat in Abeokuta, Obasanjo recalled how former U.S. President Jimmy Carter held Nigeria in high regard and always shared America’s intentions on African affairs. His remarks come amid rising tensions over President Donald Trump’s warnings to Nigeria, though Obasanjo avoided commenting directly on the controversy. The ex-president emphasized Nigeria’s past leadership role in Africa and urged renewed national strength.

I met with Sheik Gumi during my tenure after he went to meet with the B0ko Hram terr0r!sts in Sambisa Forest.
Gumi expressed sh0ck, saying that some of the boys were under the age of 15 years, had gvns, and were soaked in hard drvgs” - Frm Pres Olusegun Obasanjo

Nigerians Have the Right to Seek Foreign Help Over Insecurity — Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the federal government fails to protect lives and property.

He warned that the rising killings and attacks across the country should not be trivialised or reduced to ethnic or religious arguments, stressing that human lives must be valued above all political sentiments.

Obasanjo maintained that security is a constitutional responsibility of the government, and when it fails, citizens have the right to call for external support to safeguard their lives.

Nigerians Have the Right to Seek Foreign Help Over Insecurity — Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the federal government fails to protect lives and property.

He warned that the rising killings and attacks across the country should not be trivialised or reduced to ethnic or religious arguments, stressing that human lives must be valued above all political sentiments.

Obasanjo maintained that security is a constitutional responsibility of the government, and when it fails, citizens have the right to call for external support to safeguard their lives.

"You belong in the zoo" — Fmr. Gov. Fayose Allegedly Fires  at Fmr. Pres. Obasanjo in Viral ‘Thank You’ Message.

Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has launched a new verbal attack on ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, calling him “very irresponsible” and claiming he “belongs to the zoo” in a controversial message sent after his 65th birthday celebration.

According to Sahara Reporters, the SMS, intended as a note of appreciation, was sent on Sunday and made public on Monday by Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi. According to Akinyemi, what arrived as a “thank you” message quickly turned into a scathing tirade.

The latest outburst, coming immediately after a birthday celebration, is one of the most dramatic episodes in their nearly two-decade feud.

In the text, Fayose wrote, “Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate except for your very irresponsible comments at your age… someone once said you are supposed to be kept away in the zoo. It is also obvious that you have lost your sanity or should I say heightened dementia.” He also demanded a refund of money he claimed Obasanjo received from him, adding, “Your leopard will never change his skin.”

Obasanjo replied briefly: “Ayo, thanks for your ‘Thank You’ message which undisguisedly revealed who and what you are… Your money has been sent back through Foluso Adeagbo… in the same bag he brought it.”

Fayose and Obasanjo have a long history of political confrontation dating back to 2006, following Fayose’s controversial removal from office—a move his supporters blamed on the former president. Their rivalry has since played out in repeated public criticisms and sharp exchanges.

“Your Comments Were Irresponsible” — Fayose Fires Back at Obasanjo After Birthday Remarks

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has openly criticized ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo over comments made during Fayose’s 65th birthday celebration.

During the event, Obasanjo remarked that Fayose was “not his best political student,” recalling past clashes in which Fayose allegedly called him “inconsequential” and blamed him for his political setbacks. Despite this, Obasanjo noted that he had forgiven Fayose following a personal request for reconciliation.

However, Fayose did not take Obasanjo’s remarks lightly.
According to AIT’s report on Monday, November 17, 2025, Fayose sent a strongly worded message to Obasanjo shortly after the event, condemning the former president’s comments as “inappropriate and uncalled for.”

Fayose explained that he chose not to confront Obasanjo publicly at the venue to avoid creating a scene but maintained that the statements were unacceptable.

In his message, Fayose wrote:

“Dear Baba Obasanjo, I trust this meets you well. Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate, except for your very irresponsible comments at your age.”

The exchange has further stirred political conversations, with many Nigerians reacting to the renewed tension between the two influential figures.

OBJ: I Kept Quiet So The World'll Know The Difference Between A Sane And Mad Man That You Are–Fayose.

According to a report by Leadership News on Monday, November 17, 2025, Ayo Fayose, former Ekiti State Governor, has become the centre of a new political controversy after a leaked message reportedly showed him directing a harsh personal remark at Olusegun Obasanjo, who once served as Nigeria’s President.

The message became public on Monday and it has stirred renewed attention around both political figures as it followed Fayose’s recent birthday celebration where Obasanjo was present.

The leaked message was said to be a short message sent by Fayose after the event, expressing displeasure concerning comments allegedly made by Obasanjo during the gathering.

Fayose reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction and described Obasanjo in a manner that suggested he viewed him as unfit for dignified public reference, the language used in the message was viewed as extremely strong and personal.

The content of the message became public after it was released to journalists in Abeokuta.

The disclosure added more interest to the incident as it involved two well-known political names who have a long history of disagreements.

The release of the message also changed what may have been considered a private exchange into a matter of national interest.

Fayose reportedly stated that he had chosen silence during the celebration to avoid a public argument.