Lightning Strike Kills Police Inspector in Maiduguri
A police inspector serving in Borno State has died after being struck by lightning while on duty. The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 7, 2026, in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The deceased, Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” was performing traffic and parking duties opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters when the thunderstorm struck.
ASP Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, confirmed the tragic event in a statement released on Friday, May 8. He explained that the incident took place at about 2:19 p.m. while Garba was alongside a senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu.
“It was on a quiet Wednesday, 7th May, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m., when Inspector Abdulkadir Garba was carrying out his routine responsibility of coordinating vehicle parking opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu,” the statement read.
According to the command, both officers attempted to seek shelter as strong winds began to gather and the weather worsened. However, before they could reach safety, a loud thunderclap was followed by a powerful lightning strike that hit both men.
“As strong winds began to gather, both officers reportedly attempted to seek shelter before the rain started. But in a sudden and devastating moment, a loud thunderclap echoed through the atmosphere, followed instantly by a powerful lightning strike that hit both officers while they were still on duty,” Daso stated.
While ASP Wazani Adamu survived the incident, Inspector Garba succumbed to his injuries, having sustained partial burns from the strike. Daso described Adamu’s survival as miraculous.
“While ASP Wazani Adamu survived in what may be described as a miracle, unfortunately, Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, who was directly impacted, sadly lost his life with partial burns on his body,” he added.
The police command expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the late officer as a committed and hardworking policeman dedicated to maintaining order and public safety. “He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm,” Daso said.
“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.”
The sudden death has left colleagues and residents in shock. “Sometimes, life reminds us how fragile and unpredictable it can be. One moment, duty calls. The next moment, eternity answers,” the statement added.
This tragic event highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers face even in non-combat situations. The Borno State Police Command has extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them of support during this difficult time.
