Permanent Secretary, 4 Others Electrocuted, 13 others Injured in Gombe Power Surge
A devastating electrical surge in the Tudun-Wadan, Pantami area of Gombe Metropolis has left five people dead, including a high-ranking government official, and 13 others injured.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, catching residents off guard.
According to the Gombe State Police Command, the surge was caused by a high-voltage electrical current from a nearby transformer.
The victims, including Permanent Secretary Abdullahi Kulani, were reportedly electrocuted in their homes.
“We received a distress call and our officers from the Low-cost Divisional Police Headquarters responded swiftly to secure the scene and evacuate the victims to hospitals for urgent medical care.
“Unfortunately, five individuals lost their lives, and thirteen others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” said DSP Buhari Abdullahi, spokesperson for the Gombe State Police Command.
The deceased have been deposited in three different morgues, while the injured are receiving treatment at various health facilities across the state.
The police have launched an investigation into the cause of the power surge, with the Commissioner of Police, Bello Yahaya, describing the incident as “deeply saddening”.
“We express our heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones and wish the injured a swift and full recovery,” Commissioner Yahaya said. “We are determined to uncover the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event and ensure accountability where necessary.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for improved electrical infrastructure and safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The police have assured the public that they will do everything in their power to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
As the investigation continues, the people of Gombe Metropolis are coming to terms with the devastating loss of life and the injuries sustained.
Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and the injured, and we hope for a swift and full recovery for those affected.
