I Wished I Had Died — Heartbreaking Story of Taraba Poly Student Who Lost Both Hands After Electrocution While Hoisting Flag

According to a NewsVista reporter, a first-year student of Taraba State Polytechnic, Paul Saanmorior Iorhee, is fighting for his future after a tragic accident cost him both hands.

Paul, who had just been admitted into the School of Basic and Applied Sciences, was helping raise flags for the Taraba State Investment Summit (TARAVEST) on May 21 when the pole he was holding touched a high-tension cable.

What was meant to be a simple task turned into a nightmare. Paul collapsed instantly. Bystanders thought he was dead—until someone noticed he was still breathing. He was rushed to Gilead Hospital in Jalingo, then referred to Taraba State Specialist Hospital, and later the National Orthopaedic Hospital.

Despite doctors’ efforts, the burns were too severe. Both of Paul’s hands had to be amputated.

From his hospital bed, Paul shared his pain. “When I saw my hands were gone, I asked God why I was still alive,” he said. “But I remembered life is precious. So I started thanking God I’m even alive.”

The 19-year-old comes from a farming family. As the first son, he was the backbone of the household. His father is aging, his younger brother has a limp, and Paul carried the weight of the farm work even after gaining admission.

“I left home to change my family’s story. I wanted to be the first to break free from poverty,” Paul said. “But now, I can’t go back to farming. I just want to be useful. I’m begging Governor Agbu Kefas to give me a small civil service job when I recover.”

The Rector of the polytechnic, Danlamin Agbu, confirmed the school is working on rehabilitation options for Paul. He called on well-meaning Nigerians to support the student with prosthetic limbs so he can continue his education.

Paul’s story has deeply moved the local community, with many calling it a tragic reminder of how one moment can change everything.

He may have lost his hands—but not his hope.

He now needs help from kind-hearted Nigerians, the government, and organisations to rebuild his life with dignity.