In a shocking and potentially catastrophic incident, residents of Oromeruzimagu community in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Rivers State, unearthed an unexploded ordnance (UXO) while digging a grave for a deceased family member. This harrowing discovery has sent ripples of concern through the Niger Delta region, prompting a swift response from the Nigerian Army's 6 Division. The event not only highlights the lingering dangers of historical military remnants but also underscores the critical importance of public vigilance and professional intervention in handling such threats.
The Shocking Discovery
The incident unfolded on October 20, 2025, during a routine burial preparation in a residential compound in Oromeruzimagu, a tight-knit community in Port Harcourt. As villagers dug the grave, they stumbled upon the buried explosive device, believed to be a remnant from past military activities in the oil-rich Niger Delta. Panic ensued as the unaware residents, in a misguided attempt to prevent detonation, carried the UXO to an air-conditioned room for safekeeping before alerting authorities.
This well-intentioned but highly dangerous action amplified the risks, as the device—described as a sensitive, military-grade ordnance—could have triggered an explosion at any moment. The community's quick thinking in eventually reporting the find averted disaster, but the episode serves as a stark reminder of the invisible hazards lurking beneath everyday landscapes.
Swift Army Intervention
Upon receiving the distress call, the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, headquartered at Port Harcourt Barracks, mobilized a team of trained Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts. Led by professionals equipped with specialized gear, the team arrived promptly to secure the area, assess the UXO, and execute a safe evacuation and disposal operation.
The operation was a success, with no injuries reported and the device neutralized without incident. Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding (GOC) the 6 Division, personally commended the Oromeruzimagu residents for their vigilance in reporting the discovery. "The Army remains committed to the safety of the Niger Delta region," he stated, emphasizing ongoing measures to address such threats.
Public Safety Warnings and Expert Advice
In the wake of the event, the Nigerian Army issued a strong advisory to the public: **Never attempt to handle unexploded ordnance yourself.** Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Division, warned that such devices require technical expertise and professional equipment to manage safely. Moving or tampering with UXOs, as seen in this case, can lead to unintended detonation, endangering lives and property.
Key safety tips from the Army include:
- Immediately evacuate the area if a suspicious device is spotted.
- Do not touch, move, or cover it—even well-meaning actions can be fatal.
- Contact authorities promptly: Dial emergency lines for the Nigerian Army or local security forces.
- Report historical sites: Communities near old military zones should inform officials of potential hotspots.
These guidelines are crucial in regions like Rivers State, where unexploded remnants from conflicts and training exercises persist.
Broader Implications for Port Harcourt and the Niger Delta
This incident sheds light on the enduring legacy of military activities in the Niger Delta, an area scarred by decades of oil exploration, militancy, and security operations. Unexploded ordnances pose ongoing risks to civilian life, agriculture, and development, with similar discoveries reported sporadically across the region.
For Port Harcourt communities, the event reinforces the need for enhanced awareness campaigns, routine surveys of high-risk areas, and collaboration between residents, local government, and the military. It also highlights the Army's pivotal role in community safety, potentially paving the way for more joint initiatives like UXO awareness workshops and clearance drives.
Conclusion
The recovery of an unexploded ordnance in Oromeruzimagu community is a wake-up call wrapped in relief—a buried danger defused just in time. Thanks to the swift action of the Nigerian Army and the community's report, what could have been a tragedy turned into a teachable moment on safety and resilience. As Port Harcourt moves forward, let this story inspire greater caution and preparedness. Remember: When in doubt, call it out—your vigilance could save lives.
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