Gombe State has been thrown into mourning following the death of its Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col. Abdullahi Bello (Rtd), who lost his life in a fatal car accident on Friday.
According to reports obtained by Naija News, the tragic incident occurred along the Malam Sidi–Gombe road as the retired military officer was returning from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he attended the North-East Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programme.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s media aide, Isma’ila Uba Misilli, confirmed that the commissioner’s police orderly, Sergeant Adamu Hussaini, also died in the crash, while his driver sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Reacting to the sad news, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the late commissioner as “a disciplined officer and a dedicated public servant” who contributed immensely to strengthening security and peace in the state.
“Col. Abdullahi Bello (Rtd) will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage, and selfless service. He carried out his duties with unmatched diligence and a deep sense of responsibility. His demise is a monumental loss not only to his family and our government, but to Gombe State and Nigeria at large,” the governor said.
Yahaya commended Bello’s tireless efforts in shaping security policies and fostering inter-agency collaboration, adding that his work was instrumental in maintaining Gombe’s reputation as one of the most peaceful states in the North-East.
The governor also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured driver.
“They died in active service to the state and the nation,” he added.
The Gombe State Government noted that details of the late commissioner’s funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.