Tragedy struck on Christmas Day in Gombe State as a commercial bus driver lost control of his vehicle, plowing into a procession of Christian faithful journeying from Tumfure community to the Government House and Gombe Emir’s Palace for Christmas homage. The collision resulted in serious injuries to 22 celebrants on Wednesday afternoon.
The incident happened around 2 PM near the well-known IMAN Restaurant on Bauchi Road, where the bus suddenly careened into the gathering, reportedly due to a brake failure, causing widespread panic and distress.
According to LEADERSHIP newspaper, the harrowing event ignited anger in Gombe, leading an enraged mob to pursue the driver, who managed to flee the scene.
Although his vehicle, laden with rice and other grains, was subsequently vandalized and set on fire, there was a glimmer of hope as the Gombe State Police Command spokesperson, Buhari Abdullahi, confirmed that no fatalities were reported.
Abdullahi stated that the injured were swiftly transported to the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe and the Specialist Hospital for medical care. He also noted that an investigation had been launched into the incident, with the State’s Commissioner of Police instructing the Motor Traffic Department (MTD) to conduct a thorough inquiry.
The police appealed to the public to remain calm, assuring that a joint team of police officers and leaders from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) was on-site to maintain order and prevent further disturbances.
Reports indicate that soldiers, police personnel, and officers from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) cordoned off the area.
In a display of solidarity, state governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed his condolences to the State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the victims during a meeting at the Government House in Gombe on Wednesday evening.
He also announced that the state government would cover the medical expenses for the injured..
