● Boniface Oyebanji
A tragic incident has claimed the lives of four workers at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant in Bauchi State during a sludge cleaning operation inside the plant’s tunnels. The mishap occurred around 5:00 p.m. today April 20, 2025, and has thrown the local community and state authorities into mourning.
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the deaths in a statement issued by its spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil. According to him, the deceased – Shayibu Hamza (48), Abdulmalik Yahya (29), Jamilu Inusa (29), and Ibrahim Musa (42) – were all residents of Firo village in Ganjuwa Local Government Area.
“These were dedicated men who lost their lives in the line of duty,” Wakil said. “Their commitment to their responsibilities at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant will not be forgotten.”
The cleaning operation, which began at around noon, involved the workers entering the plant’s clarifier to dislodge pit pipes. However, things took a tragic turn when they were overcome – possibly by fumes or a lack of oxygen – and were later found unconscious.
“Despite the best efforts of medical personnel at the Specialist Hospital in Bauchi, they were unfortunately pronounced dead,” Wakil added.
Upon receiving a distress call, police officers were immediately dispatched to the scene, and the bodies were recovered in accordance with standard procedures. Wakil said an investigation has commenced to determine the exact cause of the incident.
“The management of the water treatment plant is cooperating fully with authorities to ensure a transparent review of what transpired,” he noted.
The Commissioner of Police in Bauchi State, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, extended his condolences to the bereaved families and colleagues. “We share in your grief and stand with you during this dark hour,” he said. “This tragic loss highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and strict adherence to protocols in high-risk work environments.”
The Police Command called on all organizations operating in sensitive sectors to review and reinforce safety procedures to prevent further occurrences. GMTNewsng