Four Die During Cleaning Operation at Bauchi Water Treatment Plant

Four Die During Cleaning Operation at Bauchi Water Treatment Plant

A devastating incident occurred at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant in Bauchi State, resulting in the deaths of four staff members during a sludge cleaning operation.

The incident, according to statement by CP Ahmed Muhammed Walili, Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, said happened around 5:00 pm on April 20, 2025, when the staff members entered a clarifier to dislodge pit pipes but were overcome and retrieved unconscious.

The deceased staff members have been identified as Shayibu Hamza, 48; Abdulmalik Yahya, 29; Jamilu Inusa, 29; and Ibrahim Musa, 42, all residents of Firo village, Ganjuwa Local Government Area in Bauchi State.

According to eyewitnesses, the sludge cleaning operation began around 12:00 pm, and the staff members were working in the plant’s tunnels when the incident occurred.

Despite immediate medical attention, the staff members were pronounced dead at Specialist Hospital Bauchi.

Wakil noted that the Command has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the tragedy.

He said the police have deployed personnel to the site, and the bodies have been recovered.

The management of the water treatment plant is cooperating with the authorities to facilitate a comprehensive review.

The Bauchi State Police Command has extended condolences to the management of the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant and the families of the deceased.

He noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu psc(+)mni,o has assured the public that the police will support efforts to improve safety standards.

“The incident serves as a reminder of the need for strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.

“The police and relevant authorities will work together to ensure that the necessary measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents”,the statement said .