A student of the Taraba State Polytechnic, Iorhee Saanmoyol Paul, has been hospitalised following a severe electric shock he sustained while displaying a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag.

The incident occurred on Wednesday during preparations to welcome Vice President Kashim Shettima to the Taraba State International Investment Summit (TARAVEST), which was held in Jalingo, the state capital.

Paul, who is a student of the School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, is currently receiving treatment at Gilead Hospital in Jalingo metropolis at the time of filing this report.

Narrating his ordeal from his hospital bed, he said, “I was flying the party’s flag to welcome our Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima. Then suddenly, like a dream, I found myself here in the hospital with this serious condition.”

Struggling with his injuries, Paul has appealed to the Taraba State government for further assistance, stressing the need for immediate transfer to a more specialised medical facility for better treatment.

The incident has sparked concern among students and residents, many of whom are calling on the government to ensure Paul receives the necessary medical attention without delay.

Confirming the incident, the Coordinator of the PDP Youths Movement and official in charge of PDP Flag Mobilisation (PDPFF), Iliya Kefas, told our correspondent that Paul was electrocuted while hoisting the party flag near the gate of the Taraba State Polytechnic during the TARAVEST event.

“Yes, the boy named Paul was electrocuted during our exercise. He was rushed to the hospital, and the government has taken responsibility for his medical bills. We are praying for his recovery,” Kefas stated.