Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed deep sorrow and concern over the tragic incident that occurred during an Easter procession in Billiri, Gombe State, which resulted in the loss of five lives and injuries to many others.
The unfortunate incident reportedly occurred when a trailer truck transporting grains from Adamawa State to Gombe suffered brake failure and lost control, veering into a group of Christian faithful who were participating in a religious procession to mark the Easter celebration.
Reacting to the tragedy, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as heartbreaking and regrettable, saying, “This is a dark and painful moment for the families affected and for all of us as a people.”
The Governor added, “On behalf of the Government and people of Gombe State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and pray for the swift and full recovery of those currently receiving treatment.”
Inuwa Yahaya further stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Christian community in Billiri and beyond, as well as all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”
He assured the public that, “As a government, we are committed to ensuring that the victims receive the best possible medical care.”
Meanwhile, Governor Inuwa Yahaya has directed the relevant authorities to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and vowed that those found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
“We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and decisive action will be taken against anyone found wanting in this incident,” the Governor stated.
He stressed, “The safety and well-being of our citizens remain our top priority. While we mourn, I call on all residents of Billiri and the entire state to remain calm and law-abiding. We must resist the temptation to allow grief and anger to lead us into actions that could further endanger lives or disrupt the peace we have worked so hard to build.”
The Governor added, “Security agencies have been directed to maintain law and order and engage with community leaders to promote peace and mutual understanding at this critical time.”
He noted that Gombe State is renowned for its harmony and spirit of tolerance, expressing confidence that, as a people, “We will overcome this tragedy through compassion, understanding, and a sense of unity,” as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.
Additionally, the Gombe State Police Command has confirmed that five people—including two males and three females—have been killed, while eight others are currently receiving treatment and responding positively at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, and General Hospital, Billiri, following a fatal crash in Billiri, headquarters of Billiri LGA.
The confirmation was contained in a statement signed and issued by the Command’s PPRO, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, titled “Unfortunate Road Traffic Incident in Billiri and Subsequent Public Disturbance.”
The statement read, “The Gombe State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred today, 21st April 2025, in Billiri Local Government Area, involving a heavy-duty truck.”
According to him, “A trailer truck transporting grains from Adamawa State to Gombe lost control due to brake failure while approaching a gathering of Christian faithful who were in procession to celebrate the Easter season in Billiri town.”
“The vehicle veered off the road and tragically ran into the crowd, including some Muslim residents who were observing from the roadside,” he added.
The PPRO further stated, “Police operatives from Billiri Division swiftly responded to the distress call, providing immediate rescue efforts and conveying the injured victims to the nearest hospital for emergency medical attention.”
Buhari Abdullahi noted, “In the aftermath of the incident, some aggrieved youths in the area set the vehicle ablaze, looted shops, and subsequently marched to the Billiri Divisional Police Headquarters.”
“In an attempt to express their anger, the youths began to throw stones and other dangerous objects at the officers on duty. The Divisional Police Officer and several other police personnel sustained varying degrees of injuries during the unrest. However, normalcy has been restored,” he added.
The Command condemned the act of lawlessness and urged residents to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, as investigations are currently ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, CP Bello Yahaya, commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured.
He also assured the public that adequate security measures have been put in place in the area to forestall any further breakdown of law and order.
Members of the public are urged to remain law-abiding, avoid taking the law into their own hands, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
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