The Tangale Elders Forum on Monday issued a communique following its recent meeting in the wake of the tragic Easter Monday procession accident in Billiri Local Government Area, which claimed seven lives and left 36 others injured.
Addressing the media on behalf of the Forum, Hon. Charles Iliya described the incident as a “deeply painful tragedy” that shook the entire Tangale nation. “Our hearts are heavy, and we express our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” Iliya said.
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The Forum praised the swift response of the Gombe State Government, led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for identifying with the Tangale Christian community during its period of mourning. “We were overwhelmed by the governor’s compassionate gesture — committing state resources to settle all medical bills of the injured, giving cash donations to the bereaved families, and ordering the release of youths who were wrongfully arrested,” Iliya stated.
Particular commendation was given to Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro, who was physically present at the accident scene, hospitals, and visited the affected families. “His motion on the floor of the Senate to draw national attention to the incident has been a beacon of hope for justice and healing,” the communique read.
Also acknowledged were the contributions of other lawmakers: Hon. Ali Isa JC, Hon. Yakubu Daniel, and Hon. Barr. Rambi Ayala, who all played “key roles in comforting and supporting the affected families.”
The Forum further expressed gratitude to Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, Dr. Musa Idris Maiyamba (Mai Tangale-elect), and Mr. Alfred John Kalma for their solidarity and contributions.
Religious institutions were also praised for their prompt humanitarian response. “We are deeply grateful to Tangale ECWA DCC for its leadership throughout this tragic event. The ECWA Headquarters in Jos also came to Billiri, visiting affected families, hospitals, and providing relief to those admitted,” the statement noted.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Billiri LGA and Gombe State, as well as the Area Police Command, were commended for visiting the accident site and hospitals and for publicly condemning the incident.
However, the Forum took strong exception to what it described as “false and misleading” reports from the former Divisional Police Officer, CSP Ahmed Sanda Umaru, who initially claimed that the accident was due to brake failure and that the vehicle veered off the road.
“There was no brake failure, no looting, and no shops were attacked. These statements are categorically false and an attempt to cover up lapses in security arrangements,” Iliya asserted.
The Council appreciated the intervention of the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Bauchi Zone for replacing the DPO and addressing “the root causes of security lapses and injustice that have plagued the area.”
Reflecting on a pattern of unrest dating back to the Mai Tangale succession conflict of 2021, the Elders warned that unresolved tensions continue to manifest in tragic ways. “We believe the recent tragedy is not disconnected from the events of 2021,” the communique stated.
As part of long-term solutions, the Council called for the installation of permanent speed breakers from Kufai (Kumana) junction to Lasale Bridge, Restriction of vehicular movement during Easter processions, Increased deployment of security personnel during religious events, A more active role for Billiri Local Government Authority in coordinating emergency responses.
On a separate note, the Forum addressed ongoing public misconceptions regarding the administration of the Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA). “It is important to clarify that the Late Mai Tangale, HRH Dr. Abdu Buba Maisheru II, never interfered with TCDA’s affairs. The dissolution and reconstitution of its leadership in 2021 were decisions taken solely by the then president, Mr. K.E. Teleh,” Hon. Iliya clarified. “The Mai Tangale’s role remains purely advisory under the constitution.”
Finally, the Forum endorsed the TCDA’s call for three days of fasting and 14 days of mourning across the Tangale Nation. “We stand in full support of this observance as a solemn expression of our collective grief and unity,” Iliya concluded.
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