Taraba student who lost both hands to electrocution loses one eye, seeks help
Student Faces New Health Challenges After Electrocution Incident
JALINGO, Taraba State—Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, a student at Taraba State Polytechnic, is confronting additional health issues after losing his left eye and developing complications in his remaining eye, following a severe electrocution incident in 2025.
Paul, a student in the Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, was electrocuted on May 21, 2025, when an iron rod he was using to hoist a flag for the Peoples Democratic Party came into contact with a high-tension electricity wire on the Roadblock–ATC Road near the entrance of the polytechnic. After the incident, he was initially taken to Girad Hospital in Jalingo, later transferred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital at the Taraba State Specialist Hospital.
After 28 days of intensive medical treatment, both of Paul’s hands were amputated on June 19, 2025, in an effort to save his life.
In an interview with a reporter on Thursday, Paul described how his condition has deteriorated further due to severe eye complications that led to the loss of his left eye. He reported that his remaining eye is also failing, causing him significant pain and discomfort.
“After I lost my two hands, I thought that was the end of my pains, but now my eyes are failing me,” Paul said. “I have already lost one eye, and the other one is not seeing clearly. I am in serious pain, and I need help.”
Frustrated by his ongoing struggles, Paul expressed emotional distress, questioning why he survived the electrocution only to encounter additional health challenges. He made a public appeal for assistance, urging Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, as well as philanthropists and other concerned Nigerians, to help him secure urgent eye surgery and obtain artificial hands to enhance his independence.
Despite his difficulties, Paul expressed gratitude to Governor Kefas, who provided financial assistance of 500,000 Naira shortly after his discharge from the hospital. He credited this support with enabling him to address some of his medical needs.
While appreciative of past aid, Paul noted that he now requires further medical intervention for his eye condition. He also mentioned challenges in following up with the person responsible for his case, despite assurances of future assistance.
Dr. Danga, a physician advising the governor, acknowledged Paul’s situation, stating that government intervention is a systematic process and assured that the authorities would look into the matter.
Paul’s ordeal began as he prepared for President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Taraba State for the Taraba Investment Summit, when he was electrocuted while raising the party flag. The recent developments in his health have heightened concerns for his welfare, as he urgently seeks medical intervention to prevent further deterioration of his eyesight and to help him rebuild his life.
