A massive explosion struck the United Nations' main office in Nigeria's capital early this morning, causing one wing of the building to collapse. Early reports from a UN spokesperson indicated that the incident was a bombing. Fatalities have already been reported, but details are sketchy. Reportedly, the blast originated in the basement of the building.
COMMENT: The building houses about 400 employees of the U.N. in Nigeria. Local police have confirmed the blast, but are still investigating causation. It should be noted that the UN building is in proximity to the US Embassy and other facilities in the diplomatic enclave.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the apparent attack. Last year, an extremist group from the Niger Delta blew up car bombs in Abuja during Nigeria's 50th independence anniversary ceremony, killing at least 12.
A nation of 150 million, is divided between a largely Christian south and a Muslim north. In recent months, the country has faced an increasing threat from a radical Muslim sect called Boko Haram, which is pressing for a strict adherence to Shariah law throughout the country. The sect has carried out assassinations and bombings, including the June car bombing of the national headquarters of Nigeria's federal police that killed at least two people.
It has been theorized for months that Boko Haram may be attempting to link itself with two al-Qaeda groups in other African countries to mount joint attacks in Nigeria.
Details on the bombing and appropriate analysis will be disseminated as soon as possible.
