From Willies Ugo, Gombe
Gombe Nigeria – April 29, 2025
The ad-hoc committee constituted by the Chairperson of Billiri Local Government Area, Hon. (Dr.) Eglah Idris, to investigate the tragic Easter procession accident in Billiri has confirmed an increase in the death toll, raising the number of fatalities to six.
The incident occurred when a trailer rammed into Christian worshippers during an Easter procession, killing five individuals on the spot and leaving dozens injured. In its official report submitted at the Government Lodge in Billiri, the committee revealed that one more victim had succumbed to injuries sustained, bringing the total number of deaths to six.
The deceased were identified as Grace David, Clement Lakason, Ephraim Ibrahim, Faida Philibus Lass, Rejoice Mela, and Praise Ayuba.
The nine-member committee, chaired by Hon. Rambi Ibrahim Ayala, reported that 36 persons were affected by the tragedy. Eighteen victims are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital and the Specialist Hospital, Gombe.
Key recommendations in the committee’s report included the immediate prosecution of the driver responsible for the incident, as a deterrent against future occurrences. It also urged the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Muslim leadership in the area to collaborate with security agencies to regulate vehicular movement during religious events, especially along the Kaltungo–Billiri road corridor.
The committee further called on the Billiri Local Government to install speed breakers within the town and appealed to the Gombe State Government to prioritise the renovation or construction of the General Hospital in Billiri to improve emergency response capacity in the area.
The committee expressed appreciation to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his prompt intervention, including financial support for medical expenses and burial arrangements, as well as his personal visit to the affected families.
Chairman of the committee, Hon. Ayala, also commended the leadership of the Council Chairperson, describing her as a committed and proactive leader.
The committee’s terms of reference included identification of victims and their families, assessment of medical needs, provision of immediate support, and promotion of peaceful coexistence within the community.
Members of the committee include religious and community leaders: Rev. Ezra Idi (Acting CAN Chairman), Rev. Ishaya A. Pandikungu (former CAN Chairman), Rev. Ishaya Ibrahim, Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi (Chief Imam of Tangale), Mrs. Susana S. Tanimu (CAN Chairperson), Hajiya Zuwaira A. Muhammed (Amirah, FOMWAN), and Hon. Engineer Yila Maidawa (Deputy Chairman, Billiri LGA). Mrs. Marlin Yelyel Tilling served as the committee’s secretary.
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