Tragedy struck in Gezawa, Kano State, as a mosque fire claimed the lives of 11 worshippers and left dozens injured during morning prayers on Wednesday.
Authorities reported that a man doused the mosque with petrol, locked its doors, and set it ablaze, trapping around 40 people inside. The-attack-is-believed-to-stem-from-a-family-conflict-over-inheritance.
Witnesses recounted the chaos as flames engulfed the building, with cries for help echoing through the neighborhood. Locals rushed to the scene, breaking open the locked doors to rescue those trapped.
Suspect Arrested
The Kano State Police Command confirmed the arrest of a 38-year-old man who allegedly admitted to the crime. According to local police chief Umar Sanda, the suspect claimed his actions were aimed at certain family members involved in a dispute over property division.
"This incident is not linked to terrorism but rather a family disagreement," said Sanda, adding that the suspect is cooperating with the investigation.
Emergency Response Delayed
The Kano Fire Service revealed that they were not informed of the fire immediately, which delayed their response. "We only received information after residents had already extinguished the fire," stated fire service spokesperson Saminu Yusuf.
Rising Death Toll
Initial reports confirmed one fatality, but the number of deaths increased as more victims succumbed to their injuries at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano. Several others, including children, remain hospitalized.
Community in Mourning
The attack has left the Gezawa community in deep mourning. Islamic scholar Sheikh Dauda Sulaiman condemned the act, describing it as one of the gravest sins. He emphasized the need for repentance and urged the suspect to compensate the victims' families.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public of a thorough probe to uncover all details surrounding the incident.