The Police Command in Bauchi State has confirmed a tragic industrial accident which claimed the lives of four workers at the Gubi Water Treatment Plant in Bauchi, the state capital.
The spokesman of the command, CSP Ahmed Wakili, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Bauchi.
He said the incident occurred during a sludge cleaning operation inside the plant’s tunnels.
Wakili listed the victims as Shayibu Hamza (48), Abdulmalik Yahya (29), Jamilu Inusa (29) and Ibrahim Musa (42).
They were all residents of Firo village in Ganjuwa Local Government Area of the state.
Wakili said the workers had entered a clarifier to dislodge pit pipes when the incident occured.
“They were retrieved unconscious from the tunnel and rushed to the Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, where they were later confirmed dead.
“Police personnel were swiftly deployed to the scene as investigation into the cause of the incident commenced.
“The management of the water treatment facility is said to be cooperating fully with the authorities to ensure a thorough review,” he said
Wakili, however, stressed the importance of stringent safety measures in such high-risk environments.
“Safety must be non-negotiable in operations like this,” he said.
He urged the management and workers across the sector to adhere strictly to established safety protocols.
Wakili said the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, extended condolences on behalf of the command to the victims’ families, colleagues and management of the plant.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the police to improving safety standards to prevent such occurrences in future.
Meanwhile, Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has condoled with the families of the four workers who lost their lives at the Gubi Dam.
In a condolences message, Mohammed expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a moment of profound sadness to the entire state.
“This devastating incident has cast a dark shadow over Bauchi State as we mourn the loss of these hardworking and committed public servants.
“They died in the line of duty contributing to the essential task of ensuring clean water supply for people,” he said.
The governor said the sacrifice and service of the deceased would never be forgotten, stressing that their legacy would continue to inspire all those who work tirelessly to build a better state.
He prayed for the repose of their souls, and Almighty God grant the families the strength to bear the loss.
Mohammed stressed the need for enhanced safety protocols and strict adherence to established guidelines in government and industrial operations.
He also tasked workers to prioritise safety in their duties to prevent future occurrences.
The governor said the state government has commenced investigation to unravel the cause of the accident, improve workplace safety and pledged support to the bereaved families.
By Ahmed Kaigama and Olaide Ayinde