A 100-level student of the Taraba State Polytechnic, Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, is currently battling to rebuild his life after surviving a tragic electrocution incident that led to the amputation of both hands.

The incident occurred on May 21, 2025, while Paul was hoisting a flag for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) near the polytechnic gate along Roadblock to ATC Road in Jalingo, the state capital.

Eyewitnesses reported that the flag, which had an iron handle, accidentally came into contact with a high-tension power line, resulting in a powerful electric shock.

Paul was immediately rushed to Gilead Hospital for emergency care and later transferred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital within the Taraba State Specialist Hospital due to the severity of his injuries.

After 28 days of intensive treatment, doctors were left with no choice but to amputate both hands on June 19 to save his life.

Though the state government has taken responsibility for Paul’s medical expenses, concerned citizens who spoke with The Guardian called for additional support to aid his rehabilitation.

Iliya Kefas, State Coordinator of Operation Keep Taraba Clean, expressed optimism about Paul’s recovery and appealed to the government to ensure he receives adequate post-treatment care, including rehabilitation and vocational support.

Paul, who is still undergoing treatment, expressed deep gratitude to the government for their assistance so far but appealed for further help. He specifically requested artificial limbs and a sustainable means of livelihood.

“My joy today is that I am alive, but I couldn’t fulfil my plans in life,” he said. “When I found myself in the hospital and came out of the trauma, I asked myself, ‘Why am I alive?’ But the Scripture says there is nothing you can give in exchange for your life. So I must thank God.”

“Today, my mates are sitting for their first-semester exams, but here I am. That’s God,” he said with a voice filled with a mix of pain and hope.

Paul’s family has also expressed appreciation for the state government’s support, but emphasised the need for continued assistance to help him live a productive life despite his physical limitations. (The Guardian)