The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the death of a police inspector, Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” who was struck and killed by lightning while on duty in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed this in a tribute issued on Friday, revealing that the tragic incident occurred on Wednesday at about 2:19 p.m.
According to Daso, Inspector Garba was carrying out routine traffic and parking duties opposite the police command headquarters alongside a senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu, when heavy winds signaled the start of rainfall.
He explained that both officers attempted to seek shelter before the rain began but were hit by a lightning strike before reaching safety.
“Rain often comes with its own blessings, but this one arrived with a heartbreaking streak of tragedy,” Daso said.
“It was on a quiet Wednesday, 7th May, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m., when Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as ‘Buratai,’ a police officer widely respected for his dedication, commitment, and passion for duty, was carrying out his routine responsibility of coordinating vehicle parking opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu.
“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 that while ASP Adamu survived the incident, Inspector Garba died after sustaining partial burns to his body.
“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 spokesperson described the late inspector as a dedicated and hardworking officer who served the public diligently despite difficult weather conditions.
“He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm.
“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,” Daso said.
He noted that the sudden death of the officer had left colleagues, friends, and residents in shock and mourning.
“Sometimes, life reminds us how fragile and unpredictable it can be. One moment, duty calls. The next moment, eternity answers,” he said.
Cover picture:
Late Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” who died after being struck by lightning while on duty in Maiduguri, Borno State.
