At least seven people are feared dead following an explosion that occurred at a popular viewing centre in Damaturu, Yobe State, late Tuesday night as football fans gathered to watch the match between Brazil and Mexico match in the on-going World Cup games.

Some reports said at least seven persons were killed and 15 others injured, but no official confirmation has emerged.

The Yobe Police Command confirmed the incident. The public relations officer for the command, Nansak Chewang, said he could not ascertain the extent of casualty in the blast.

“You know it happened just this night, we are yet to establish what happened and the details,” the police spokesperson said.

However, giving the population of the centre, the figures are expected to rise.
The Nigeria Police had a week ago advised owners of the centres to take extra security measures as well as to collaborate with security agencies to safeguard their viewers during the World Cup tournament.

“For the safety of your clients and customers, the operators of the centres should carry out a thorough stop and search of viewers before allowing them into the centres”, spokesperson for the Force, Frank Mba, had said in a statement.

The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, administration announced a ban on TV viewing centres in the city and warned operators against flouting the order.

Similarly, the Plateau State police command issued a similar directive and advised football fans to stay away from such centres, saying they should rather watch all the matches of their homes.