A suspected terror plot at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) in Borno State has left at least 23 people dead and over 100 injured after security operatives stopped teenage suspects attempting to smuggle explosives into the facility.
How the Attack Unfolded
The incident occurred on March 16 when three teenagers allegedly tried to gain entry into the hospital premises using a tricycle, locally known as Keke Napep. They reportedly concealed explosives inside a food flask, posing as visitors bringing meals to patients.
Security personnel at the hospital entrance became suspicious when the suspects approached at high speed and refused to follow routine checks.
Ali Musa, one of the guards on duty, said their behaviour immediately raised concerns.
“People usually slow down for checks, but they drove in recklessly. I stopped them and asked them to turn back,” he said.
As the suspects reversed, one of them reportedly threw the flask toward the security post. Musa said he kicked it away moments before it detonated.
Casualties and Injuries
The explosion triggered chaos at the entrance of the hospital, killing several people and injuring many others. A second blast followed shortly after, worsening the situation.
Musa sustained injuries, while his colleague suffered a broken leg. Victims nearby, including civilians, were also caught in the blasts.
Witnesses said the suspects appeared to be between 13 and 14 years old.
Eyewitness Accounts
A local trader near the hospital confirmed that the attackers appeared intent on causing mass casualties within the facility.
“They wanted to enter the hospital and detonate inside. It would have been far worse,” she said.
Authorities have not released a breakdown of casualties specific to the hospital entrance alone.
Related Explosion at Monday Market
On the same day, another explosion occurred at the popular Monday Market in Maiduguri around 7:05 pm. Witnesses believe a suicide bomber carried out the attack using an explosive vest.
One eyewitness described the scene as devastating:
“I heard the blast and ran home. Later, we heard one victim was burnt beyond recognition. People suspected he was the bomber,” she said.
Government and Security Response
Following the attacks, President Bola Tinubu ordered top military officials to relocate to Borno State to strengthen security operations.
The Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff subsequently arrived in Maiduguri to assess the situation and coordinate response efforts.
Rising Security Concerns
The attempted hospital bombing highlights ongoing security challenges in the North-East, particularly the use of young individuals in terror operations.
Authorities have intensified surveillance and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
For more updates on security developments in Nigeria, visit the Nigeria Police Force official channels.
Why It Matters:
The quick action of hospital security likely prevented a far deadlier attack. However, the incident underscores the evolving tactics of extremist groups and the urgent need for stronger intelligence and community vigilance.
