Tragedy struck in Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State as a fire engulfed an Islamiya school, claiming the lives of at least 17 Almajiri students.
Eyewitnesses report that the fire broke out late Tuesday night and raged for about three hours, leaving 17 students dead and 16 others injured.
A resident, Abdulrasaq Bello Kaura, told Channels Television that the fire was caused by stored sticks, locally known as kara.
“It happened at Makarantan Mallam Ghali, inside their study hall. There were about 100 students in the building. After evacuating them, they believed everyone was safe. However, upon returning after the fire, they discovered the remains of students who had been burnt beyond recognition,” he said.
The 17 victims were buried on Wednesday.
Speaking via telephone, the Chairman of Kaura-Namoda Local Government, Mannir Haidara, confirmed the incident but stated that he was en route to the scene and would provide further details later.
