Gombe perm sec, 4 others electrocuted in power surge

A tragic power surge in the Tudun Wadan Pantami area of Gombe Metropolis claimed the lives of five people, including a serving Permanent Secretary in the Gombe State Civil Service, Muhammad Yusuf Kulani, in the early hours of Saturday.

Thirteen others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

Kulani, who served at the Ministry of Special Duties and Regional Integration, was reportedly electrocuted while attempting to open the gate of his residence.

His daughter, who was with him at the time, survived but remains hospitalized.

According to eyewitnesses, the surge was caused by a high-voltage spike from a nearby electricity transformer, which affected several homes in the neighborhood.

The Gombe State Police Command confirmed the incident through its Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi. He said officers from the Low-Cost Divisional Headquarters responded swiftly to secure the area and evacuate victims for medical care.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that five people lost their lives while 13 others were injured and are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals,” Abdullahi stated.

He assured the public that a full investigation would be launched to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a “colossal loss” to the state. In a condolence message issued by his spokesperson, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor lamented the untimely death of Kulani and other victims.

“This heart-wrenching incident has plunged our state into mourning.

“Alhaji Yusuf Kulani was a disciplined and patriotic officer who served Gombe with integrity. His loss, along with other promising citizens, is a painful blow to the state,” the governor said.

He assured the public that the state government would work with relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the power surge and take necessary preventive measures.

The deceased have been buried according to Islamic rites, while prayers continue for the swift recovery of those injured.