Gombe Perm Sec, four others electrocuted in power surge tragedy

Tragedy struck Gombe State on Saturday, June 14, 2025, as a high-voltage electricity surge killed a senior government official and four others, leaving at least 13 more injured.

The deceased include Muhammad Yusuf Kulani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Regional Integration.

The incident occurred in the Tudun Wada Pantami area of Gombe metropolis in the early hours of June 14.

Eyewitnesses say the tragedy began when Mr. Kulani attempted to open the gate to his residence.

He was instantly electrocuted.

His daughter, who was with him at the time, narrowly escaped death but is now hospitalized.

Locals report that a sudden power surge from a nearby transformer affected several buildings in the area, causing widespread shock and panic.

The Gombe State Police Command confirmed the incident.

Speaking to reporters, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, said officers from the Low-cost Divisional Headquarters quickly responded to the scene.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that a high-voltage surge from a nearby transformer caused the deaths of five individuals and injured 13 others.

The injured victims are receiving treatment at various hospitals,” he said.

The late Mr. Kulani and the other victims were buried the same day, in accordance with Islamic rites.

Reacting to the tragedy, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed deep sorrow.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor described the incident as heart-wrenching and called it a “colossal loss” to the state.

“The loss of Alhaji Yusuf Kulani, a disciplined and dedicated officer, is a blow not only to his family but to the entire Gombe State.

We will work closely with relevant authorities to investigate the cause and ensure this never happens again,” the governor said.

He extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for a speedy recovery for those injured.

The police assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Meanwhile, residents have been advised to remain calm and cooperate with authorities.

This tragedy has raised new concerns about power safety standards in residential areas, especially in regions prone to unstable electricity supply.

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