Tragedy struck in Karatudu community, Ungwar Romi, Kaduna State, when a sudden power surge led to the death of two people and the destruction of several homes and properties.

The incident happened on Tuesday, August 25, 2025, after a high-voltage supply from a faulty feeder linked to the transformer serving the area caused a massive fire outbreak.

The victims were identified as Elder Johnson Babatunde Atteh and a young boy named Joshua, who were electrocuted in their homes. Elder Atteh reportedly lost his life while attempting to switch off a freezer, while Joshua was killed as he tried to plug in his phone.

Speaking on the matter, the spokesperson of Kaduna Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, explained that the police were yet to receive a formal report of the tragedy but promised that investigations would be carried out once the case is officially reported.

A resident of the community, Mr. Sam Ajoga, narrated that the surge occurred around 9:00 p.m., instantly claiming the lives of the victims and leaving widespread damage.

He disclosed that electric cables and buildings were burnt, while many electronics were destroyed. Ajoga himself lost his home to the fire, saying he only managed to rescue his certificates after being alerted while in church.

Family members of the deceased expressed deep pain and anger, blaming Kaduna Electric for negligence. Chief Oyibo Atteh, a relation of Elder Atteh, said residents had repeatedly reported faults with the transformer, but nothing was done until the incident claimed lives.

Officials of Kaduna Electric later visited the community to console the bereaved families and admitted that the problem came from a faulty feeder that damaged the transformer.

A senior staff member, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the high voltage spilled into homes, causing the devastating fire that destroyed lives and properties.