A devastating explosion occurred at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kaduna’s Kakuri Industrial Layout on September 20, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two workers, including a military officer, and injuring four others. The blast, believed to have been caused by expired materials stored in bunkers, including gunpowder and other explosive materials, shook surrounding buildings and triggered panic in nearby neighborhoods.
Incident Details:
– Location: DICON factory in Kakuri Industrial area, Kaduna South local government, Kaduna State
– Date: September 20, 2025
– Cause: Explosion of expired materials, including gunpowder and other explosive materials
– Casualties: 2 deaths, 4 injuries
– Injured evacuated to: St. Gerard Catholic Hospital in Kakuri and later transferred to 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna for further treatment
Response and Investigation:
– Board of Inquiry: DICON management has instituted a board of inquiry to investigate the incident and determine its immediate cause
– Safety Concerns: The explosion has raised concerns among residents about safety standards at the facility, given its location within a densely populated area of Kaduna metropolis
– Official Statement: DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, confirmed the incident, assuring the public that the situation is under control and there’s no need for panic.
