Lightning strike kills Police Inspector, injures ASP in Maiduguri

By Johnson Arua

A Police Inspector identified as Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” has died after being struck by lightning while on duty in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council of Borno State.

The tragic incident occurred last Wednesday at about 2:19 p.m. opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters in Maiduguri.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the deceased officer was coordinating vehicle parking alongside ASP Wazani Adamu when heavy rain clouds gathered in the area.

The statement explained that both officers attempted to seek shelter before the rain started when a loud thunderstorm occurred, followed by a lightning strike that hit them.

ASP Wazani Adamu reportedly survived the incident with injuries, while Inspector Garba died from severe burns and other injuries sustained from the lightning strike.

The late officer was said to be well known within the police command and among residents because of his regular duty post near the command headquarters.

The incident has sparked grief among colleagues, residents and sympathisers, many of whom described the deceased as dedicated to his duty.

Family members, fellow officers and members of the public have continued to mourn his passing and pray for the repose of his soul.