Jigawa varsity lecturer loses two children to fire outbreak

Two separate fire incidents in Dutse, Jigawa State, have claimed the lives of two children, with another incident narrowly avoided.

Arewa PUNCH gathered that the incidents were confirmed by the Public Relations Officer, NSCDC, Jigawa State Command, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani, in a statement issued to journalists in Dutse, the state capital, on Thursday.

The first incident, the statement disclosed, occurred at about 4:00 a.m. on Thursday morning at Layin Dabinai, near Masallacin Malam Babba, where a fire engulfed rooms occupied by two children of Aminuddeen Abubakar, a staff member of the Federal University Dutse (FUD).

“Despite prompt emergency response efforts, the intensity of the fire made rescue efforts impossible, and the two children were badly burned to ashes and sadly confirmed dead at the scene,” ASC Tijjani said.

As a result, the NSCDC Jigawa State Command extended its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased children.

“We sympathise with the family and urge residents to remain vigilant and adopt strict fire safety practices,” Tijjani stated.

In a separate development, another fire outbreak occurred at about 12:00 noon within the same Gida Dubu area. Preliminary findings revealed that the fire originated from an electrical spark in the kitchen of one Nura Garba.

ASC Tijjani stated that “fortunately, no lives were lost in the second incident, as firefighters responded swiftly and successfully brought the situation under control, preventing further destruction.

“The fire extended to adjoining houses, causing damage to kitchens and roofing zinc,” he said.

However, the NSCDC Jigawa State Command said that it is investigating the causes of both incidents.

“Relevant authorities are expected to carry out a thorough investigation to determine the causes and recommend preventive measures,” Tijjani stated.

Moreover, the command urges residents to be cautious when handling electrical appliances and open flames.

“We reiterate our commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Jigawa State,” the statement said.

“Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Let’s work together to prevent fire incidents,” he added.