A high-voltage electrical surge in the Tudun-Wadan Pantami area of Gombe Metropolis claimed five lives and injured 13 others in the early hours of Saturday, according to the Gombe State Police Command.
Among the deceased was Abdullahi Kulani, the Permanent Secretary of Special Duties and Regional Coordination in the state.
The surge, which authorities linked to a nearby transformer, occurred just after dawn, catching residents off guard. Police spokesperson DSP Buhari Abdullahi confirmed that officers from the Low-cost Divisional Headquarters responded swiftly to the scene, securing the area and evacuating victims for emergency medical care.
“Sadly, five individuals lost their lives, and thirteen others suffered varying degrees of injuries,” Abdullahi said.
The bodies of the deceased were taken to three separate morgues: three at the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, one at the State Specialist Hospital, and one at Bolari Filin Kwallo Mortuary. The injured are currently receiving treatment at various health facilities across the state.
Gombe State Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Yahaya, described the incident as “deeply saddening” and extended condolences to the affected families. He assured the public of a thorough investigation into the cause of the surge.
“We are committed to uncovering the circumstances behind this tragedy and will ensure accountability where needed,” he said.
Residents of Tudun-Wadan Pantami remain in shock. One eyewitness described the moment as “terrifying,” saying many victims were electrocuted inside their homes.
“I’ve never seen anything like it. People were screaming and running. Some had already passed out before help arrived,” the resident recounted.
