A fire outbreak at an Islamic school in Zamfara State has claimed the lives of at least 17 students, leaving 16 others injured.
The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday night at Makarantar Mallam Ghali, an Almajiri school in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, and lasted for over three hours before firefighters managed to contain the flames.
According to residents, the fire originated from an abandoned flame left by the Qur’anic students, who had gathered for their usual nightly recitations using sticks known as Kara.
A local resident, Abdurrazak Bello Kaura, told reporters: “The fire was caused by the abandoned flames left by the Qur’anic students. It spread quickly before anyone could control it.”
Confirming the tragedy, the chairman of Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, Comrade Mannir Mu’azu Haidara, assured that the local government would provide assistance to the school, the victims, and the families of those who lost their lives.
Governor Lawal Mourns Victims
Reacting to the tragedy, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young lives.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor described the incident as “highly unfortunate.”
“I’m heartbroken by the tragic fire on Tuesday at Makarantar Mallam Ghali, an Almajiri School in Kauran Namoda. On behalf of the Zamfara State Government, we extend our condolences to the families, the school, and the entire nation as we mourn the loss of these young souls,” the statement read.
The governor also assured that the government would investigate the cause of the fire to prevent future occurrences.
“As a responsible government, we will examine the underlying causes of this fire and seek methods to prevent its recurrence in the future. We will provide all necessary support and assistance to the victims’ families,” Lawal stated.
