Thaindian News

ABUJA, NIGERIA (BNO NEWS) — At least eight people died and three others were wounded after two car bomb explosions in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, in midst of their celebrations on their 50th year of independence, officials said Friday.

Police Force spokesperson, Emmanuel Ojukwu, confirmed the number of victims after two vehicles exploded in the central district of the federal capital, at Bayelsa state house in Central Area, which is about 10 minutes away from the Eagles Square venue.

Victims of the explosion were transported to Asokoro and Maitama general hospital as fire service officials quickly began to patrol the area and a police bomb squad investigated the explosions.

Previously, a message from the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), a militant group which has sought fairer distribution of Nigeria’s oil wealth, had been sent to media outlets, warning of its plan to interrupt the independence celebrations.

“There is nothing worth celebrating after 50 years of failure,” the message said.

“With due respect to all invited guests, dignitaries and attendees of the 50th independence anniversary of Nigeria being held today, Friday, October 1, 2010 at the Eagle Square Abuja, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is asking everyone to begin immediate evacuation of the entire area within the next 30 minutes. This warning expires after 10.30 hrs,” the MEND statement said.

“Several explosive devices have been successfully planted in and around the venue by our operatives working inside the government security services. In evacuating the area, keep a safe distance from vehicles and trash bins,” the statement added.

No group has claimed responsibility of the explosions.