- Safiu Kehinde
Gombe State’s Commissioner for Internal Security, Col. Abdullahi Bello (Rtd) has died in a tragic auto crash on Friday.
Bello reportedly died alongside his police orderly, Sergeant Adamu Husaini, along the Malam Sidi-Gombe road.
The accident occurred when the late commissioner was returning from Maiduguri, Borno State, after attending the Northeast Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR).
The tragic incident was confirmed in a statement by the Gomber state governor, Inuwa Yahaya, through Ismaila Uba-Misilli, the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House.
While expressing his sadness over the loss, Yahaya hailed Bello for bringing his wealth of military experience, leadership and patriotism into the service of Gombe state.
He said the late commissioner played a vital role in consolidating the peace and security for which the state is renowned.
“We received the heart-breaking news with profound sadness; the late commissioner was a disciplined officer and dedicated public servant.
“Bello will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage and selfless service.
“He carried out his duties with unmatched diligence and 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.
He recalled the deceased’s impactful contributions in the State Executive Council, particularly in shaping policies on internal security, inter-agency collaboration and community safety.
“On behalf of the government and people of Gombe state, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, his associates, and the Balanga Local Government community.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannat Firdaus.”
The governor also sympathised with family of the late police orderly, Hussaini who also lost his life in the tragic accident, describing both men as patriots who died in active service to the state and the nation.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the commissioner’s driver, who is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the crash.