Maiduguri Blasts: How Vigilance at Hospital Gate Saved Lives

Maiduguri Blasts: How Vigilance at Hospital Gate Saved Lives
The incident resulted in the loss of at least 23 lives, while 108 others sustained injuries
Reports also indicate that the same day saw another explosion at Monday Market in Maiduguri

Fresh details have emerged on how three teenagers allegedly attempted to carry out an attack at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, using an explosive device concealed in a food flask before they were stopped by security personnel at the entrance, Eko Hot Blog reports.

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According to findings, the suspects believed to be minors were trying to gain access to the hospital premises, reportedly with the intention of causing widespread harm to patients and visitors.

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However, alert security officials denied them entry, leading to explosions at the hospital gate on March 16. The incident resulted in the loss of at least 23 lives, while 108 others sustained injuries.

One of the security personnel at the facility, Ali Musa, recounted that the teenagers arrived in a tricycle, appearing like regular visitors bringing food to patients. He said their behaviour raised suspicion when they approached the gate at speed instead of slowing down for routine checks.

Musa explained that he stopped them and instructed them to turn back. While they initially resisted, they eventually reversed. During that moment, one of the suspects threw the flask toward him, which he deflected. Moments later, an explosion occurred at the entrance.

He added that the situation quickly escalated, with another blast happening shortly after, leaving several people injured, including his colleague.

A nearby shop owner, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the suspects appeared intent on targeting the hospital.

Maiduguri Blasts: How Vigilance at Hospital Gate Saved Lives — Bomb Blast

Reports also indicate that the same day saw another explosion at Monday Market in Maiduguri, believed to be carried out by a different attacker.

Eyewitnesses described the incident as deeply frightening, forcing many residents to flee the area for safety.

Following the attacks, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed top military officials to relocate to Borno State in response to the rising security concerns.

In line with the directive, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, arrived in Maiduguri on March 18 to assess the situation and coordinate further action.