Gombe State was thrown into mourning on Saturday following a fatal high-voltage electrocution incident that claimed five lives, including a senior government official. Among the deceased was Muhammad Yusuf Kulani, Permanent Secretary in the Gombe State Ministry of Special Duties.

The tragedy occurred when a high-tension power line reportedly snapped, releasing a deadly surge of electricity into the surrounding area. Eyewitnesses recount a sudden burst of sparks followed by screams, as the live wire made contact with unsuspecting individuals nearby. Thirteen others were injured during the incident, several of whom remain in critical condition and are currently receiving treatment.

Kulani’s passing has deeply shaken the state’s civil service and political landscape. Widely respected for his integrity and commitment to public duty, his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from both colleagues and community members. Many described him as a pillar of governance in Gombe whose leadership style left a lasting impact.

This tragic event has reignited serious concerns about the safety of Nigeria’s electrical infrastructure. Despite repeated incidents across the country, high-tension lines remain dangerously exposed in both residential and commercial zones. Experts warn that unless urgent steps are taken to enforce stricter safety standards and modernize the power grid, similar accidents will continue to claim innocent lives.

Local authorities have begun investigating the cause of the cable failure, while emergency responders continue to monitor the status of those injured. The state government has also pledged to support the affected families and ensure that proper maintenance audits are carried out across key power installations.

The incident has also drawn attention to the readiness of emergency services in handling electrical disasters. Quick intervention is often the difference between life and death in such cases, and many are calling on both state and federal agencies to invest in improving disaster response systems and public safety education.

As Gombe State grapples with the emotional and political aftermath, the nation watches closely for the measures that will follow. For many, this tragedy underscores the urgent need for reform and accountability in Nigeria’s aging and often neglected power infrastructure.