Four workers have d!ed during a routine maintenance operation at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant in Bauchi State.  The incident occurred around 5 pm on Sunday, April 20, 2025 when workers were carrying out a sludge cleaning exercise in the plant’s tunnel. Spokesperson of the Bauchi State Police Command, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, who confirmed the incident in a statement said the workers had entered the clarifier to dislodge pit pipes but were tragically overcome and retrieved unconscious. At about 1700 hours today, a tragic event unfolded at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four dedicated staff members during a sludge cleaning operation in the plant’s tunnels, the statement read. “This incident underlines the urgent need for reinforcing workplace safety practices and strict adherence to established protocols. “The deceased are: Shayibu Hamza, 48, Abdulmalik Yahya, 29, Jamilu Inusa, 29, and Ibrahim Musa, 42 “They all resided in Firo village, Ganjuwa L.G.A., in Bauchi State. Their commitment to their work at the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant has left an indelible mark on their colleagues and the broader community. “The sludge cleaning operation commenced around 1200 hours. During the procedure, the staff members entered the clarifier to dislodge pit pipes but were tragically overcome and retrieved unconscious. Despite immediate medical interventions, they were pronounced dead at Specialist Hospital Bauchi. “Upon receiving information about the incident, the police quickly deployed personnel. Following standard protocols, the bodies were recovered, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the specifics surrounding this occurrence. The management of the water treatment plant is fully cooperating with relevant authorities to facilitate a comprehensive and transparent review. “This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of safety in the water treatment sector. It underscores the responsibility of both employers and employees to emphasise and adhere to established safety protocols to mitigate future risks. The Bauchi State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu psc(+)mni, extends heartfelt condolences to the management of the Gubi Dam Water Treatment Plant and to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.  We hope for comfort and strength for their families during this challenging time and remain committed to supporting improvements in safety standards.  The post Four workers d!e in Bauchi water treatment facility appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.

Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church and the first ever pontiff from the Americas, has died at the age of 88. 

The Vatican confirmed his passing early Monday morning, sending waves of grief through the global Catholic community, including Nigeria, where millions of faithful are mourning the loss of a beloved spiritual father.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell made the announcement from St Peter’s Basilica, saying the Pope passed peacefully at 7:35 a.m. Vatican time. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” he said. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

Here is a reflection on the life and times of the man who brought new energy, bold reforms and compassionate leadership to the Church, especially as remembered by Nigerian Catholics.

A humble beginning in Buenos Aires

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in December 1936, Pope Francis was the son of Italian immigrants. He worked as a janitor and chemical technician before becoming a Jesuit priest in 1969. His simple lifestyle and deep sense of humility set him apart early in his clerical journey.

Even as a cardinal, he lived in a modest apartment and took public transport, often cooking his own meals.

A papacy of firsts and global influence

In March 2013, Pope Francis was elected to lead the Church after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He became the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America and the first non European in more than one thousand years to wear the papal crown.

READ ALSO: Pope Francis says Church hasn’t known ‘how to listen’

He chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his deep love for the poor. His focus on social justice, climate change, and the plight of migrants shaped his legacy. His messages often encouraged Nigerian Catholics to embrace compassion, speak out against corruption, and care for the vulnerable in society.

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A familiar figure among Nigerian Catholics

Pope Francis consistently spoke to the global south, and his attention to African concerns was evident. Nigerian clergy frequently quoted his teachings, and his positions on poverty, justice and inequality often mirrored the struggles faced by many communities in the country.

He never visited Nigeria officially, but his presence was felt through his messages, his support for African bishops, and his engagement with topics close to the hearts of Nigerian believers.

A voice for Gaza and the oppressed

Pope Francis was widely regarded as a defender of human dignity, and this extended to his outspoken support for the people of Gaza. During intense escalations between Israel and Hamas, he called for an immediate ceasefire and condemned the killing of civilians, especially women and children. He referred to the situation as a humanitarian tragedy and urged the international community not to remain silent in the face of such suffering.

His call for peace, mutual respect and dialogue struck a chord with many Nigerian Catholics who have themselves lived through conflict and unrest. For them, the Pope’s empathy with Gaza reinforced his legacy as a global moral leader unafraid to speak uncomfortable truths.

RELATED: Pope condems ‘hell’ of migrant detention camps in Libya

Moments that sparked controversy

While widely admired, Pope Francis had his share of controversial moments. One such instance that drew backlash in Africa was a viral video showing the pope withdrawing his hand from a black priest who attempted to kiss his papal ring. Though the Vatican explained it was to prevent the spread of illness, many Nigerian faithful considered the gesture dismissive and racially insensitive.

His stance on same sex unions also stirred debate. In 2020, Pope Francis expressed support for civil protections for same sex couples, saying they too are “children of God.” While he did not endorse same sex marriage within the Church, his comments were seen as a break from traditional Catholic positions, prompting criticism from many Nigerian Catholics who remain deeply conservative on such issues.

READ ALSO: Pope admits priests, bishops sexually abused nuns

Health struggles and resilience

In his later years, Pope Francis battled multiple health issues including colon surgery in 2021, chronic knee pain and recurring respiratory infections. Despite this, he continued to travel and speak boldly on global issues, earning respect for his resilience and unwavering commitment.

Though he hinted at possible resignation on a few occasions, he stayed in office until his passing, maintaining his role as a moral voice on issues like war, climate change, and economic injustice.

A legacy that will endure

Pope Francis may be gone, but his impact on the Church and the world will remain for generations. He will be remembered for his openness, humility, and efforts to bridge divides within the Church and beyond. Nigerian Catholics, especially, will remember him as a pontiff who made them feel seen, heard and spiritually included.

As mourning continues across Nigeria’s dioceses and parishes, his teachings will likely serve as a guidepost for many in the years to come. In life, Pope Francis challenged believers to walk with the poor and speak truth to power. In death, he leaves behind a Church at a turning point and a people forever changed.

Pope Francis has d!ed at the age of 88.  His de@th was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement released by the Vatican.  “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the de@th of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”The pontiff, who was Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church, became pope in 2013 after his predecessor Benedict XVI resigned. Until his de@th. the the Pope had been battling with Pneumonia and Bronchitis. After 38 days in the hospital, he was discharged from the hospital on March 23. May his soul rest in peace, Amen.   The post Pope Francis d!es at 88 appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.