Five people lost their lives and eight others sustained injuries after a truck ran into a group of Christian worshippers celebrating Easter in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State. The incident happened on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, as the faithful were descending from a symbolic mountain climb meant to commemorate the meeting with Jesus Christ in Galilee.
According to an eyewitness, the truck, which was transporting grains to Gombe, veered off the road and ploughed into the crowd—mostly youths and children—crushing several individuals.In response to the tragic event, angry youths set the truck ablaze and stormed the Divisional Police Headquarters, demanding that the driver be handed over to them.
DSP Buhari Abdullahi, spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that five individuals—two males and three females—were confirmed dead. “The truck lost control due to brake failure while approaching a gathering of Christian faithful who were celebrating Easter in Billiri town,” the statement read.
The vehicle also struck some Muslim residents who had gathered by the roadside to observe the procession. Police officers from the Billiri Division responded swiftly and evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment. Five people were confirmed dead, and eight others are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, and the General Hospital in Billiri.
Following the crash, tensions escalated as irate youths not only torched the truck but also looted shops and marched to the police station, pelting officers with stones and other objects. Several officers, including the Divisional Police Officer, sustained injuries during the chaos.
Police were able to rescue the truck driver and have arrested eight suspects in connection with the attack on the police facility. Calm has since been restored in the area. The Command condemned the violence and urged residents to remain peaceful and allow legal processes to take their course. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full details of the incident.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Yahaya, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also assured the public of reinforced security measures to prevent further disturbances and encouraged residents to remain law-abiding and report any suspicious activities.
Source : https://m.lindaikejisblog.com/
