Vehicle Crashes into Christmas Procession in Gombe, Injuring 22 Celebrants

On December 25, 2024, a devastating incident unfolded in Gombe State, Nigeria, when a commercial vehicle lost control and crashed into a Christmas procession, injuring at least 22 participants. The procession, an annual tradition where Christians pay homage to the Emir of Gombe and the state governor, was disrupted around 2 PM as celebrants from the Tumfure community were making their way to the Emir’s Palace and Government House.

According to the Gombe State Police Command, the vehicle involved was a Sharon bus loaded with bags of rice. The police spokesperson, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, stated, “The vehicle lost control and rammed into the procession. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the accident.” Eyewitness accounts painted a chaotic scene as participants attempted to flag down the vehicle but were unsuccessful.

While initial reports confirmed 22 injuries, some participants claimed that the number was higher, with estimates suggesting up to 40 individuals required medical attention. Shamsuddeen Kachalla, a leader in the procession, noted that “12 were taken to Federal Teaching Hospital and 28 to Specialist Hospital.” This incident marked a tragic first for what has been a peaceful tradition for many years.

In the aftermath of the crash, an angry mob set fire to the vehicle, and the driver fled the scene. Abdullahi emphasized that police efforts are underway to locate and apprehend him: “The situation is calm now, and we are monitoring processions closely.” Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed his condolences during a meeting with leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), urging calm among the community. “I commiserate with those affected by this unfortunate incident,” he stated.