The Gombe State Government has announced the death of its Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col. Abdullahi Bello (rtd), who lost his life in a fatal motor accident along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road on Saturday.

According to a government statement, the late commissioner was returning from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he attended the North-East Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) Framework. He died alongside his police orderly, Sergeant Adamu Hussaini, in the crash.

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, describing the late Col. Bello as a disciplined officer, a loyal administrator, and a patriotic leader who devoted his life to public service. “Col. Abdullahi Bello (rtd) will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage, and selfless service. He carried out his duties with unmatched diligence and a 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.

The governor also extended condolences to the families of the late Col. Bello and Sergeant Hussaini, as well as to the people of Balanga Local Government Area. He prayed Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings and grant them eternal rest, while wishing the commissioner’s driver who sustained injuries in the accident a speedy recovery. The time for the funeral prayer will be announced later.