Sani Dutsinma
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has ordered the immediate constitution of a high-powered committee to investigate the fire outbreak at Nurul Haqq Quranic and Arabic School in Birnin Kebbi.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday night, affected several hostels and classrooms within the school premises, prompting swift emergency response efforts led by the governor and relevant authorities.
According to a statement issued on Sunday, the governor was on his way to break his Ramadan fast when he noticed thick smoke rising along the roadside. He immediately ordered his convoy to stop and investigate the source of the smoke, which was traced to the school.
Upon arrival at the scene, Idris directed the immediate evacuation of students and alerted the Kebbi State Fire Service and other emergency responders to contain the blaze.
His prompt intervention ensured the safe evacuation of more than 140 students from the affected buildings, with no casualties recorded. The governor remained at the scene throughout the emergency operation, personally supervising rescue efforts until the fire was completely extinguished.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, Idris expressed gratitude that no lives were lost. He noted that the presence of gas cylinders in some of the students’ rooms contributed to the intensity of the fire, which firefighters battled for about three to four hours.
The governor commended the Kebbi State Fire Service for its professionalism and timely response in bringing the situation under control.
He also reassured parents and guardians that all affected students are safe, in stable condition, and have been relocated to the school’s main branch.
Idris emphasized that the investigative committee would determine the root cause of the fire and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in schools across the state.