Kebbi Hospital’s Blast Not From Explosives — Police

The Kebbi State Police Command has clarified that the Tuesday explosion that rocked the General Hospital in Bagudo was caused by an overheated gas cylinder in the air conditioner units and refrigerators at the facility and not explosives or any form of aerial activity.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, sparked panic among residents of the area.

However, the police confirmed that no casualties were recorded.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Command, SP Bashir Usman, explained that the explosion resulted from overheated gas cylinders in air-conditioning units and refrigerators within the hospital premises, leading to the loud blasts heard by residents.

“Investigations and expert assessments have confirmed that the incident was caused by an inferno. No explosives or aerial activity were involved,” Usman said.

He added that assessments carried out by Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) experts, in conjunction with the Commissioner of Police’s Tactical Team, corroborated the findings.

“No loss of life or injuries occurred, as verified by the on-site expert teams,” he stated.

The police spokesperson urged members of the public and the media to disregard unverified reports suggesting the involvement of a bomb or a helicopter, advising them to rely solely on official information.

“The situation is fully under control, and the Command remains committed to public safety and transparency,” Usman assured.

LEADERSHIP had earlier reported that the incident that occurred at early hours of Tuesday morning caused panic in the area.

However, the police stressed that the explosion was accidental and not linked to any criminal activity, noting that security agencies promptly secured the scene to forestall further threats.