A panel set up by the Gombe State Government has reported that the tragic Easter Monday accident, where a truck ran into a procession of Christians in Biliri local government area, was a deliberate act by the driver and not due to mechanical failure as initially speculated.
The ad-hoc committee comprising both Christian and Muslim representatives, was tasked with reviewing the circumstances surrounding the attack that claimed six lives and left dozens critically injured.
Revealing the findings to the public, Chairman of the committee, Rambi Ayala, stated, “The findings happened from the incident when a trailer truck driver carelessly rammed into the last batch of Christians participating in the Easter procession leading to multiple fatalities and severe injuries.”
He further confirmed the extent of the tragedy, “The committee undertook a careful identification of those affected by the tragedy, a total of 36 persons were involved and at the moment 18 of them are still receiving treatment at the federal teaching hospital and the specialist hospital in Gombe.
“Sadly, 6 precious souls were lost, namely, Grace David, Clement Lakason, Ephraim Ibrahim, Faida P. Uslas, Rejoice Mela and Praise Ayuba.”
In addition to its findings, the committee offered key recommendations to the state government, calling for significant improvements in emergency healthcare infrastructure.
“The government should consider constructing or renovating the current general hospitals to help maintain the growing health challenges in the area especially during emergencies like the instant case,” Ayala said.
The committee also praised the swift response of government agencies and encouraged citizens to continue fostering unity.
