A somber Easter celebration turned tragic on Monday when a trailer transporting goods rammed into a group of worshippers during a procession along the Gombe–Yola Federal Highway in the Billiri Local Government Area of the state.
The state police confirmed that the accident claimed five lives (two males and three females) and left several others injured.
Reacting to the incident, the state governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident.
The tragedy ignited unrest in the area as irate youths took to the streets.
Eyewitnesses reported that the trailer involved in the crash was set ablaze by an angry crowd, who also demanded the release of the driver from police custody.
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Tensions quickly escalated into clashes between the protesters and the police, leading to the looting of shops and the theft of motorcycles across parts of Billiri.
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The police, however, eventually brought the situation under control and restored calm to the area.
Governor Yahaya, in a statement issued Monday, expressed deep sympathy to the families of the victims and the Christian community in Billiri, pledging that the state government would ensure justice is served.
He described the incident as heartbreaking and regrettable.
“This is a dark and painful moment for the families affected and for all of us as a people. On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and pray for the swift and full recovery of those currently receiving treatment.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Christian community in Billiri and beyond, as well as with all those affected by this tragedy.
“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that the victims receive the best possible medical care. We will come out of this tragedy more united,” the governor stated, calling for calm and collective healing.
Meanwhile, he directed the relevant authorities to investigate the accident’s circumstances immediately and vowed that those found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
According to authorities, investigations have begun to uncover both the immediate and underlying causes of the tragedy.
Officials have also appealed to residents to remain peaceful and allow due process to prevail.
The police condemned the act, urging residents to stay calm and allow proper investigations to take place.
Commissioner of Police, Bello Yahaya, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also assured the public that security has been strengthened in the area to prevent further unrest.
Residents are advised to remain law-abiding, avoid vigilante actions, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
In December 2024, a Sharan vehicle plowed into a Christmas procession, resulting in fatalities.
Similarly, in 2019, members of the Boys Brigade were killed after being struck by a vehicle during an Easter march.
The recurring tragedies have intensified calls for stronger safety measures during religious events and tighter traffic control on major routes during festive seasons.
