The Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Colonel Abdullahi Bello (rtd), has died in a fatal road accident along the Malam Sidi–Gombe road.
The state government confirmed the tragedy in a statement released on Friday by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli.
According to Misilli, the late Commissioner was travelling from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he had attended the North-East Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) framework. He was accompanied by his police orderly, Sergeant Adamu Husaini, who also lost his life in the crash.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the late Colonel Bello as a disciplined officer, a patriotic leader, and a devoted public servant who contributed immensely to the peace and security architecture of Gombe State.
“Col. Abdullahi Bello (rtd) will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage, and selfless service. His passing is a monumental loss to his family, our administration, and to the people of Gombe and Nigeria at large,” the Governor said.
Governor Yahaya highlighted Bello’s pivotal role in strengthening inter-agency coordination and community safety through the State Executive Council. He extended heartfelt condolences to the Commissioner’s family, the people of Balanga Local Government Area, and the Gombe security community.
The Governor also sympathised with the family of the late police orderly, describing both men as patriots who died in active service to the state. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon their souls and for the quick recovery of the Commissioner’s driver, who sustained injuries in the accident and is currently receiving treatment.
