Reported by: L. Imafidon | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
A police inspector attached to the Nigeria Police Force has died after being struck by lightning while on active duty in Maiduguri, according to the Borno State Police Command.
The deceased officer was identified as Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known among colleagues and residents as “Buratai.” Police authorities said the tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, May 7, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m. while he was carrying out traffic and vehicle parking duties opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters in Maiduguri.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Nahum Daso, the late inspector was alongside a senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu, when weather conditions suddenly changed and strong winds began gathering ahead of rainfall.
Police authorities explained that both officers reportedly attempted to seek shelter before the rain started. However, before they could reach safety, a loud thunderclap was followed by a lightning strike that hit both officers while they remained on duty.
The command confirmed that ASP Wazani Adamu survived the incident, which officials described as miraculous, while Inspector Garba died after sustaining partial burns from the lightning impact.
In an emotional tribute released by the command, ASP Daso described the late officer as a dedicated and hardworking policeman respected for his commitment to duty and public service. The statement noted that the incident left colleagues, friends and residents shocked by the sudden loss.
The tragedy has generated reactions across social media and among residents in Borno State, with many expressing sympathy to the family of the deceased officer and the police command. The incident also renewed discussions about the unpredictable dangers security personnel face while carrying out public duties, even outside armed conflict situations.
Borno State remains one of Nigeria’s most security-sensitive states due to years of insurgency linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP activities. However, the death of Inspector Garba was not connected to violence or militant activity but to severe weather conditions during active duty operations. (Wikipedia)
As of the time of reporting, no further official statement had been issued regarding funeral arrangements or possible support for the deceased officer’s family.q1
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