From Victor Edozie Port Harcourt
The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks has cautioned residents of Port Harcourt over a reported case of the discovery of an unexploded ordnance at Oromeruzimagu Community in Port Harcourt, Local Government Area, Rivers State.
A statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday by the Division’s Deputy Director of public relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah said investigation revealed that the Unexploded Ordnance was discovered by community members, while digging a grave for the burial of a deceased in a compound.
Jonah said the locals evacuated the item to an air conditioned room, supposedly to prevent detonation.
He said, the actions of residents calls for caution, as handling such sensitive military graded Ordnance requires technical capability.
“Thus, members of the public are enjoined to please report such discoveries to the nearest security agency and avoid resorting to the dangerous practice of self-help. This cautionary notice becomes necessary in view of the devastating impact such high trajectory weapons could have on the environment.
“While, the Division appreciates the promptness with which the case was reported. It is however, important to reemphasize that such discoveries should be reported appropriately,” he said.
The statement added that the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah thanked the community members for their efforts in the reported case.
He further reassured the people of the Niger Delta Region that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure safe evacuation of such items by trained personnel of the Division.
