A police inspector attached to the Borno State Police Command, Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” has died after he was struck by lightning while on duty in Maiduguri.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Friday.
Daso said the incident occurred on Wednesday at about 2:19 p.m. while the deceased officer and his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu, were coordinating vehicle parking opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters.
According to him, both officers attempted to seek shelter as strong winds gathered before rainfall began, but were struck by lightning before reaching safety.
“Rain often comes with its own blessings, but this one arrived with a heartbreaking streak of tragedy,” Daso said.
He explained that while ASP Adamu survived the incident, Inspector Garba died after sustaining partial burns from the lightning strike.
“Inspector Abdulkadir Garba was widely respected for his dedication, commitment and passion for duty.
“He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm,” the police spokesperson stated.
Daso described the late officer as a hardworking and dedicated policeman who served diligently despite harsh weather conditions.
According to him, the incident has left colleagues and members of the public in shock and grief.
“Inspector Abdulkadir Garba was more than a police officer to many; he was a familiar face, a hardworking officer and a symbol of dedication to service,” he added.
The command condoled with the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased officer over the tragic incident.
