28 years old Usman Mohammed of Afghanistan Quarters, who allegedly drove his truck into an Easter Monday procession of Christian worshippers in Billiri Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State, killing five people, is to be tried, the Gombe Police Command has said.
21 others were hospitalised.
The gory accident was captured on camera by passers-by filming the procession. The event almost sparked a religious riot in the predominantly Christian area as many alleged the driver deliberately rammed into the procession.
Reckless driving and brake failure were initially querried for the tragedy, but the community people lambasted the Police, wondering how they knew it was a mechanical and brake failure before investigations were conducted.
The driver and his passengers were thoroughly beaten by angry witnesses.
In a swift intervention to douse tension, the state government announced a N2 million donation to families of the deceased.
The police, in a statement by its public relations officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, said the planned arrangement followed a thorough investigation, including scene analysis, evidence review and inspection of the vehicle by the Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO).
He said Mohammed is been charged with multiple counts, including inconsiderate driving and, causing death by dangerous driving.
Buhari disclosed that the Chief Magistrate Court seven (7) will be handling the legal proceedings in Gombe metropolis.
“We extend our appreciation to all members of the public who provided information and support during the investigation.
“Any additional inquiries or relevant information can still be directed to the officer incharge of State Motor Traffic Department at Police Area Command Gombe state,” he added.
Two days after the tragic event, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State announced a donation of N2m each to the families of the five persons who lost their lives.
At the palace of the Mai Tangale, Danladi Maiyamba, the governor expressed heartfelt sympathy, describing the incident as deeply saddening.
“No right-thinking individual would ever wish such a tragedy upon others.
“This is one of those moments that reminds us of the fragility of life and the ultimate will of the Almighty God, which no man can question.”
He pledged to cover the medical bills of those currently receiving treatment in hospitals across the state, cautioned against any acts of lawlessness in the wake of such tragedies, emphasising the need to uphold peace and lawful conduct.
“While we grieve, we must remain law-abiding. Resorting to self-help or taking the law into one’s hands will only worsen the situation, and security agencies will not stand by and allow such actions to go unchecked,” the governor cautioned.
Chairperson of Billiri LGA, Hon. Eglah Idris, praised the governor’s empathetic leadership and swift response, describing it as a “balm of comfort” to the grieving community.
“Your Excellency, your visit and timely intervention reflect your compassionate leadership, deep empathy, and commitment to peace and justice in Gombe State. We are truly grateful for your constant support, especially in our times of need,” she said.
But Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA) called on the state government to probe in a press statement signed by the Chairman Comrade Danladi Bako, blamed the security agencies for not providing adequate security to the procession.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria had written to get approval for the procession but the security agencies were only watching while the tragic event occurred. If they provided security they should be at the front and behind the procession,” he said.
He disagreed with the police claim that the crash was a result of brake failure.
“As for the laughable statement from the police, we have the following observations. Considering video evidence that contradicts the police statement, we hereby submit that their bias against the victims is clear.
“First, the statement insinuated that the truck veered off the road due to a brake failure. This lie was the crux of the press release by the Gombe State Police Command, via the PRO.
“On the contrary, video evidence shows otherwise. The vehicle drove straight into the unsuspecting celebrants from behind them. The driver was inside the truck, the driver did not tap on his horn to draw attention, and the vehicle came to a complete stop on the main road after mauling the victims.
“Secondly, the statement by the police states that “The vehicle tragically ran into the crowd, including some Muslim residents who were observing from the roadside,” is a blatant lie aimed at creating acrimony between Christians and Muslims. No Muslim was affected in this incident. The vehicle ran into the people in procession. Some pictures and videos shows what happened.
“Thirdly, questions regarding the culpability of the police must be addressed. The Easter Monday Procession is an annual event in Billiri town; despite that fact, each year the police division in Billiri is notified about the event – this year was no different. So, we ask, where were the police officers on traffic watch? Why did the police at the state and zonal levels repeat the same statement about mechanical/brake failure before conducting any investigation? How did the police know it had anything to do with brakes? If the police want to explore, we will provide video evidence that counters their position (some videos have already gone viral on social media). Please, stop treating us as fools.”
