NIGERIA: Explosion Hits Kebbi Hospital, Security Agencies Launch Investigation

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

An early-morning explosion has disrupted activities at the General Hospital, Bagudo, in Kebbi State, prompting an immediate security response and an ongoing investigation by law enforcement agencies.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, but assured residents that no casualties were recorded.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the situation was swiftly brought under control as security agencies moved in to secure the hospital environment and prevent further threats.

Usman stated: “The Kebbi State Police Command wishes to assure members of the public that we have full control of the security situation following the explosion at the General Hospital, Bagudo.”

He disclosed that a joint security team comprising the police, military, and local vigilante operatives immediately cordoned off the affected area, while specialists from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) unit were deployed to assess the scene.

According to the police spokesman, although a building within the hospital’s staff quarters was damaged, all occupants had evacuated before the explosion and were unharmed.

Usman added that the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State has ordered the deployment of additional tactical units to the area to reinforce security, reassure residents, and maintain public order.

“A comprehensive investigation is currently ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion, and further updates will be communicated as necessary,” he said.

Residents were advised to remain calm and avoid the immediate vicinity of the hospital to allow security operatives to conduct a thorough investigation without interference.

Authorities say the hospital’s core medical facilities were not affected, while security agencies continue to work to establish the source and nature of the explosion.