By Godwin Agia, Jalingo
A 100-level student of Taraba State Polytechnic, Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, has undergone a double amputation after surviving a severe electric shock while hoisting a flag for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jalingo, the state capital.
The tragic incident occurred on May 21, 2025, during preparations for the Taraba State International Investment Summit, held in honour of Vice President Kashim Shettima. Paul, a student of Epidemiology and Disease Control at the School of Basic and Applied Sciences, had joined a group of students flying party flags to welcome dignitaries to the event.
Eyewitness Mr. Peter Jeyol told our correspondent that Paul’s flag, which had an iron rod attached, accidentally came into contact with a live high-tension cable near the polytechnic gate along Roadblock–ATC Road. Paul was immediately electrocuted and rushed to Gilead Hospital, where he received emergency treatment.
Due to the extent of the injuries, Paul was later referred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital annexe at Taraba State Specialist Hospital, where doctors made the difficult decision to amputate both of his hands to save his life. The surgery was carried out on June 19, nearly a month after the accident.
Speaking from his hospital bed, Paul expressed gratitude for being alive but shared his emotional pain over the life-altering incident.
“My joy today is because I’m alive,” he said. “But one thing I didn’t fulfil is my life plan. When I found myself in the hospital, I felt like, ‘Why am I alive?’ But the scripture says there is nothing you can give in exchange for your life. So I must thank God for His good work. Today, my mates are writing exams, but here I am. That’s God.”
The Taraba State Government has reportedly taken full responsibility for Paul’s medical bills. However, Paul is now appealing to the government and well-meaning Nigerians for further support, especially the provision of prosthetic hands and vocational training that will allow him to earn a living after recovery.
“I plead with the government to support me with artificial hands and any skilled job that can help me earn something monthly after treatment,” he said.
Hon. Iliya Kefas, Coordinator of Operation Keep Taraba Clean and a PDP youth mobiliser, confirmed the incident and praised the government’s intervention. He also appealed for continued assistance to support Paul’s rehabilitation.
Paul’s family, while appreciative of the support so far, echoed the need for long-term care and empowerment to help him live a dignified life beyond the tragedy.
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