Grief hits Katsina community as mother, 5 children die in building collapse

By Abbas Bamalli

A 45-year old mother identified as Mariya Sani and her five children were crushed to death when their house collapsed during a heavy downpour in Dankama Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State early Tuesday morning.

The children were identified as Mujahid, 20; Zahariya, 18; Hauwa, 15; Amira; and Nura Sani, aged five.

The victims’ husband and father, Malam Muhammad Sani, confirmed the tragic incident to reporters in Katsina on Tuesday.

He said the incident occurred around 2 a.m. on Tuesday while the victims were asleep, claiming the lives of a mother and five of her children.

According to Sani three others were rushed to hospital with varying degrees of injury sustained during the collapse.

Sani explained that he was away when it happened and was left in shock after hearing the news.

“This affected about 10 people, but sadly six didn’t survive. Three are currently receiving treatment in hospital,” he told journalists.

The tragedy has triggered widespread grief in the community.

Many sympathisers have visited the family’s Dankama home to offer their condolences and support.

Sani expressed his acceptance of the tragedy, saying, “I surrender to Allah’s will. May He grant them eternal rest.”

Hajiya Binta Dangani, Executive Secretary of Katsina State Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), confirmed the incident to NAN.

She said agency officials had been dispatched to condole the family and assess the damages for necessary follow-up. (NAN)