KEBBI GOVERNOR CALLS FOR INQUIRY AFTER 140 STUDENTS ESCAPE SCHOOL FIRE
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By: Fasasi Hammad
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has ordered the formation of a high-level investigative committee following a fire outbreak at the Nurul Haqq Quranic and Arabic School in Birnin Kebbi.
The fire, which broke out on Saturday evening, engulfed several hostels and classrooms, causing panic among students and locals.
Idris, who was en route to break his Ramadan fast when he noticed thick smoke along the roadside, immediately instructed his convoy to stop. Upon discovering that the smoke was emanating from the school, he ordered the swift evacuation of the students and alerted the Kebbi State Fire Service and other emergency teams.
Despite observing his fast, the governor remained on-site for several hours, personally overseeing the evacuation of over 140 students and ensuring their safety.
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Firefighters battled the flames for nearly three to four hours before bringing the fire under control.
Describing the incident as “deeply unfortunate,” Governor Idris expressed relief that no lives were lost. He said, “We thank Almighty Allah that no lives were lost in this incident. The safety of our children is our utmost priority, and we will not take this matter lightly.”
The governor explained that gas cylinders found in some student rooms likely contributed to the intensity of the fire. He praised the Kebbi State Fire Service for their swift and professional response, noting their efforts prevented what could have been a more catastrophic outcome.
“The fire service personnel showed remarkable courage and professionalism. Their timely intervention made a significant difference,” he added.
Idris reassured parents and guardians that all affected students were safe and temporarily relocated to the school’s main branch while the damage to the structures is assessed.
In addition, the governor directed the immediate establishment of an investigative committee to determine the cause of the fire and recommend measures to prevent future incidents.
“We are setting up a committee to thoroughly investigate this incident and provide recommendations on how to prevent such occurrences in any school across Kebbi State,” he stated.
Boarding schools in northern Nigeria, particularly Quranic and Arabic schools, often face safety challenges such as overcrowding, electrical faults, and unsafe cooking practices in hostels. Experts have long called for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, especially regarding the use of gas cylinders and other flammable materials in student accommodation.
In recent years, the Kebbi State Government, under Governor Idris, has been working to enhance infrastructure and improve student welfare in both conventional and Islamic schools. The governor reiterated that student safety remains a top priority for his administration.
The incident has reignited calls for stronger fire safety measures in boarding schools across the state, and the investigative committee is expected to submit its findings in the coming weeks.
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