A 100-level student of Taraba State Polytechnic, Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, is facing a life altering challenge after surviving a tragic electrocution that resulted in the amputation of both hands.
The incident occurred in Jalingo, the state capital, on May 21, 2025, near the polytechnic gate along Roadblock to ATC Road.
The student was electrocuted while hoisting a flag for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
The metal handle of the flagpole accidentally came into contact with a high tension electric wire, causing a severe electric shock.
He was rushed to Gilead Hospital, in Jalingo, for emergency treatment before being referred to the National Orthopedic Hospital located within the Taraba State Specialist Hospital due to the extent of his injuries.
After 28 days of intensive care, doctors performed a double amputation on June 19, 2025, in a bid to save his life.
While the state government has assumed responsibility for his medical expenses, concerned citizens and stakeholders have called for additional intervention to support Paul’s rehabilitation and future livelihood.
Speaking, the Coordinator of Operation Keep Taraba Clean, Iliya Kefas, expressed hope for Paul’s recovery and urged the government to go further by providing prosthetic limbs and vocational training.
Paul, who remains under medical care, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support he has received but appealed for more assistance to enable him to regain independence.
“My joy today is that I am alive, but I couldn’t fulfill my plans in life. When I woke up in the hospital, 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,” he said.
Paul, whose tone was a mixture of sorrow and gratitude, added, “Today, my classmates are writing their first-semester exams, and I’m here. That’s God.”
While applauding the efforts of the state government, Paul’s family stressed the importance of sustained assistance to help him adapt to his new reality and live a productive life despite his physical limitations
