- What: A major power surge caused electrical wires to snap, leading to electrocutions.
- Where: Tudun Wada Pantami area of Gombe metropolis, Gombe State.
- When: Friday night, June 14, 2025.
- Who: Eight people died, including Mohammed Yusuf Kulani, a permanent secretary. Several others were injured.
- Why: The power surge originated from a major transformer in the community.
Gombe Community Rocked by Electrocution Tragedy
Gombe State is reeling after a tragic incident where eight people lost their lives due to electrocution. The event occurred in the Tudun Wada Pantami area of Gombe metropolis, triggered by a powerful electricity surge. This surge caused electrical wires to break, resulting in the electrocution of unsuspecting residents.
How Did It Happen? The Nitty-Gritty Details
According to sources, the electric surge originated from a major transformer in the community. This surge caused high-tension wires to snap and spark, turning a routine power restoration into a deadly event. The timing was especially cruel – residents were caught off guard as power was initially restored weakly before surging violently.
Top Government Official Among the Dead
Among the victims was Mohammed Yusuf Kulani, a permanent secretary in the state government, specifically the Ministry Of Special Duties. His death has sent shockwaves through the government and the community. This incident highlights the critical need for better infrastructure and safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
Eyewitness Accounts: A Night of Horror
Eyewitnesses recounted the horror of that Friday night. After an initial weak restoration of power, a sudden surge caused the high-tension wires to break. Anyone unfortunate enough to be near the wires was immediately electrocuted. The chaotic scene quickly turned into a desperate rescue effort as neighbors rushed victims to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe.
The Aftermath: Casualties and Official Responses
Five people were confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital. Tragically, three more succumbed to their injuries later that morning. Ahmed Kasimu Abdullahi, the state Head of Civil Service, confirmed the death of Mohammed Yusuf Kulani, the permanent secretary. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Buhari Abdullahi, stated that five people died and 13 others were injured.
Abdullahi released a press statement, saying, “The Gombe State Police Command regrets to confirm a tragic incident of electrocution that occurred in the early hours of Saturday June 14, 2025, in the Tudun-Wadan Pantami area of Gombe Metropolis, resulting from a high-voltage surge from a nearby electricity transformer.”
He added that officers were immediately dispatched to secure the area and evacuate victims to the hospital for urgent medical attention.
Immediate Actions and Future Prevention
In the wake of this tragedy, questions are being raised about the maintenance and safety of the power infrastructure in Gombe State. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation to determine the exact cause of the surge and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes regular inspections, upgrades to outdated equipment, and public awareness campaigns on electrical safety.
Remembering the Victims
As Gombe State mourns, thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and injured. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reliable and safe infrastructure. It is hoped that this unfortunate event will spur meaningful action to protect communities from such dangers.
Nigeria’s Power Infrastructure: A Persistent Challenge
Nigeria’s power sector has long been plagued with challenges. According to the World Bank, access to electricity remains a significant issue, with millions of Nigerians still lacking reliable power. Power outages and surges are common, often resulting in damage to appliances and, in tragic cases like this, loss of life. The Nigerian government has been working to improve the power infrastructure through various initiatives, including privatization and investments in renewable energy sources, but there is still a long way to go. Improving power infrastructure and ensuring safety should remain a priority.