By Frank Ulom
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the deaths of four officers in an auto crash that occurred on Monday morning, November 13, 2023, along the Abuja-Kano highway.
CONVERSEER reports that a bus carrying Immigration officers returning from training in Kano was involved in an accident along the Abuja-Kano road on Sunday (November 12).
In a statement signed by Dr Adedotun Aridegbe, Service Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Immigration Service on Monday (November 13), the NIS said four officers lost their lives in the 18-seater bus that was involved in the accident.
Aridegbe said seven NIS officers who sustained a high degree of injuries are receiving treatment at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano.
“Yesterday, a group of eleven of our personnel were returning to Abuja from an official assignment in Kano, in an eighteen-seater official bus.
“Tragically, they were involved in a ghastly accident a few kilometres from Kano. As a result, four of our personnel lost their lives. This has been a deeply distressing and sorrowful moment for all of us within the Nigeria Immigration Service.
“Seven of our colleagues who sustained various degrees of injuries are currently receiving treatment at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano. Our thoughts and prayers are with them for a swift and complete recovery.
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“The Nigeria Immigration Service, in light of this unfortunate incident, had to first ensure the families of the deceased were informed and supported before addressing the media,” Aridegbe said.
The NIS spokesperson further stated, “Arrangements for the burials of our departed colleagues are being organised with utmost care and respect.”
Adding that “The Acting Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, is deeply grieved by this loss and is personally extending her condolences and support to the families of the deceased.
“The Service stands firmly with those left behind by their breadwinners during this distressing period.”
He said “An immediate investigation has been ordered by the Acting CGI to ascertain the remote cause of the accident.
“We are committed to understanding the circumstances that led to this tragic event and will take appropriate measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
“This is a time of deep reflection for the entire Nigeria Immigration Service family.
“The Acting CGI has directed all Commands and Formation Heads to fly our flag at half-mast for the next seven days. We will observe a three-day mourning period in honour and memory of our fallen colleagues.
“We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time. We ask for your respect for the privacy of the affected families as they navigate this immense loss.”
