Police Inspector “Buratai” killed by lightning strike in Maiduguri

The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the death of a police inspector, Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” who was killed after being struck by lightning while on duty in Maiduguri, the state capital.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, disclosed in a statement on Friday that the incident occurred on Wednesday, May 7, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m., while the officer was carrying out routine duties alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu.

According to the statement, both officers were stationed opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters, coordinating vehicle movement and parking, when weather conditions suddenly changed.

Daso explained that as strong winds began to gather, the officers attempted to move to a safer location before the rain fully started. However, they were caught in a sudden thunderstorm.

“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,” the statement read.

While ASP Wazani Adamu survived the incident, Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, who was directly hit, died on the spot, sustaining severe burns.

The police spokesperson described the late inspector as a dedicated officer known for his discipline, commitment, and consistency in service delivery.

“He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm,” Daso said, noting that his death had left colleagues and residents in shock and grief.

He added that the officer had been widely respected within the command and among members of the public for his professionalism and sense of duty.

The command described the incident as a painful reminder of life’s unpredictability, as tributes continue to pour in for the fallen officer.

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