The Gombe State Government’s panel of inquiry has confirmed that the tragic Easter Monday incident in Biliri, which saw a truck plow into a Christian procession, was not an accident but a deliberate and targeted attack.
This conclusion, reached by a multi-faith committee of respected citizens, puts to rest earlier suspicions and raises serious questions about the motive behind the deadly act.
Presenting the report, panel chairman Rambi Ayala stated unequivocally:
“The trailer driver did not lose control. He carelessly and intentionally rammed into the last group of Christians in the procession, resulting in the death of six and injuries to 30 others.”
The deceased were named as Grace David, Clement Lakason, Ephraim Ibrahim, Faida P. Uslas, Rejoice Mela, and Praise Ayuba. Eighteen victims remain hospitalized at the Federal Teaching Hospital and the Specialist Hospital in Gombe.
The panel urged the state government to act swiftly by upgrading healthcare infrastructure, particularly General Hospitals, to better respond to emergencies of this nature.
It also praised emergency responders for their quick intervention on the day of the tragedy.
While commending the peaceful coexistence of faith communities in Biliri, the panel called for calm and unity — even as the demand for justice grows louder.
The identity and motive of the driver, however, remain key areas of interest for further investigation.
