…As Committee Recommends Erection of Speed Breakers, Security/Religious Groups Synergy, Renovation of General Hospital
Yunusa Isa, Gombe
The adhoc committee on Ɓilliri Easter Day tragedy said one more patient has died, a development that brought the total deaths to six, 18 others still in hospital while a total of 36 persons were inflicted in tragedy.
Addressing a press conference on Monday in Ɓilliri, chairman of the committee Hon. Barrister Rambi lbrahim Ayala said “The committee undertook a careful identification of those affected by the tragedy. A total of 36 persons were involved, and at the moment, 18 of them were still receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital and Specialist Hospital Gombe. Sadly, 6 precious souls were lost, namely Grace David, Clemen Lakason, Ephraim Ibrahim, Faida Philibus Lass, Rejoice Mela and Praise Ayuba”.
He said the committee has equally made several visitations to the victims who were receiving treatment and has attended the burial of those who passed away.
The committee outlined four recommendations as ways forward to preventing future occurrence.
“In order to forestall such incidence from re-occurring, the committee recommends;
1. The outright prosecution of the driver to serve as deterrent to others.
2. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the leadership of the Muslim Ummah should work hand in hand with security agents to control the movements of vehicles along the road from Kaltungo to Billiri until after any religious procession.
3. The local government should erect speed – breakers on the axis used for the processions.
4. The State Government should, as a matter of priority, consider renovating/reconstructing the General Hospital Ɓilliri to help contain the growing health challenges in the area especially during emergencies like in the instant case”.
Barrister Ayala appreciated the timely intervention of the state government, the personal visit of the state governor and his instant funds donation to cater for medical bills of the victims and burial expenses of the deceased.
The nine-member committee commended Ɓilliri Local Government Chairperson Madam Eglah Idris for her uncommon commitments to ensuring the security and welfare of Tangale people.
It equally appreciated the efforts of first respondents who, regardless of faith, creed or political differences, assisted the victims by moving them to nearby medical facilities.
The committee chairman prayed for God Almighty to grant quick recovery to those in bed, and prevent similar occurrence in any part of the state.
It could be recalled that the incidence happened when a trailer truck driver rammed into the last batch of Christians participating in the Easter procession, leading to multiple fatalities and severe injuries. The incidence immediately sparked outrage, tears, and sorrow across the state.