The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed a fatal industrial accident that led to the deaths of four workers at the Gubi Water Treatment Plant in Bauchi.
According to the State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakili, the tragic incident occurred during a sludge-cleaning operation within the plant’s tunnel system. He disclosed the details to journalists on Sunday in Bauchi.
Identified victims of the mishap were Shayibu Hamza, aged 48; Abdulmalik Yahya, 29; Jamilu Inusa, 29; and Ibrahim Musa, 42. All four were residents of Firo village in Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
Wakili explained that the workers were inside a clarifier attempting to dislodge pit pipes when the tragedy struck.
“They were retrieved unconscious from the tunnel and rushed to the Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, where they were later confirmed dead,” he said.
He noted that police officers were promptly dispatched to the site, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway.
“The management of the water treatment facility is said to be cooperating fully with the authorities to ensure a thorough review,” he added.
Wakili highlighted the critical need for enforcing strict safety protocols in hazardous work environments.
“Safety must be non-negotiable in operations like this,” he emphasized, calling on industry stakeholders to uphold safety standards diligently.
He also conveyed condolences from the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, to the bereaved families, co-workers, and the management of the Gubi plant.
Wakili reaffirmed the command’s dedication to enhancing workplace safety to avert future tragedies.
