Tragedy in Niger State: Parish Priest And Hospital Staff Drown After Road Accident

The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of the bodies of Reverend Father James Omeh, Parish Priest of Saint Anthony Catholic Church, Gulu, and Ms. Charity John, a staff member of Divine Mercy Hospital, Dutsen Kura, following a tragic road accident that led to their drowning.

According to police sources who spoke to Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred on the night of May 24, 2025, at approximately 10:00 PM. The victims were traveling in a white Hilux vehicle along the Lapai-Gulu route when they reportedly missed their way and inadvertently drove into a flooded stream. The area was experiencing heavy rainfall and poor visibility at the time, contributing to the fatal mishap.

Upon receiving the distress report at around 11:30 AM on May 25, the police swiftly mobilized to the scene. Local divers were engaged in the recovery efforts, and by midday, the bodies of Fr. Omeh and Ms. John were found and retrieved from the water.

Their remains were handed over to Reverend Father Paul Moroa, the Parish Priest of Lapai, to commence Christian burial rites.

The police also confirmed that the Hilux vehicle was recovered from the stream and has since been towed to the station as part of the ongoing investigation.

The tragic loss of Father Omeh and Ms. John has sent shockwaves through the communities of Gulu and Dutsen Kura, where both were known for their dedication to service and community welfare.