JUST IN : Gombe Easter truck accident was deliberate attack – Panel Confirms

A government-appointed investigative panel in Gombe State has concluded that the tragic incident on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, where a truck rammed into a Christian procession in Billiri Local Government Area, was a deliberate act by the driver and not an accident as initially speculated.

Incident Overview

During the Easter celebrations, a trailer truck drove into a group of Christians participating in a procession, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and injuries to 30 others. The driver, identified as Usman Muhammed, was immediately taken into custody by the police. Initial reports suggested brake failure as the cause, but eyewitness accounts and further investigations prompted a more in-depth inquiry.

Findings of the Investigative Panel

The ad-hoc committee, comprising both Christian and Muslim members, was tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Chairman of the committee, Rambi Ayala, stated, "Our investigation revealed that the driver's actions were deliberate. He rammed into the last batch of worshippers during their procession, causing multiple deaths and injuries." 

The panel identified 36 victims in total, with 18 currently receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital and Specialist Hospital in Gombe. The deceased were named as Grace David, Clement Lakason, Ephraim Ibrahim, Faida P. Uslas, Rejoice Mela, and Praise Ayuba.

Community Response and Historical Context

Community leaders and eyewitnesses have expressed outrage over the incident, citing a pattern of similar attacks during Christian celebrations in the region. In 2019, a security officer reportedly drove into a Boys Brigade procession, killing several children. In 2024, a minibus drove into a Christmas procession in Tumfure, injuring many. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of religious gatherings in the state.

The Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA) and other socio-cultural organizations have accused the Gombe State Government and the Nigeria Police of negligence and misinformation regarding the tragic killing of Christians during the Easter Monday procession. They have called for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure justice for the victims.

Recommendations and Government Response

The panel has urged the Gombe State Government to urgently upgrade medical infrastructure, especially in emergency response capabilities. "There's a critical need to renovate and equip general hospitals to manage crises like this," Ayala added. 

Governor Inuwa Yahaya has extended his condolences to the families of the victims and has pledged to ensure that the victims receive the best possible medical care. He emphasized the government's commitment to justice and unity in the state.

Legal Proceedings

The Gombe State Police Command has confirmed that the truck driver, Usman Muhammed, will face trial on charges related to reckless driving and causing death by dangerous driving. The matter will proceed to court, with the Chief Magistrate Court Seven handling the legal proceedings.

Conclusion

The confirmation that the Gombe Easter truck incident was a deliberate attack has sent shockwaves through the community and the nation at large. As legal proceedings commence, there is a collective call for justice, improved security measures during religious events, and enhanced emergency response infrastructure to prevent such tragedies in the future.