Kebbi gov orders probe after 140 students escape school fire

Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, has ordered the constitution of a high-powered investigative committee following a fire outbreak at Nurul Haqq Quranic and Arabic School in Birnin Kebbi. The incident occurred on Saturday evening, gutting several hostels and classrooms and triggering panic among students and residents. Idris, who was reportedly on his way to break his Ramadan fast, noticed thick smoke along the roadside and directed his convoy to stop. On discovering that the smoke was coming from the school, he ordered the immediate evacuation of students and alerted the Kebbi State Fire Service and other emergency responders. His intervention ensured that rescue operations began without delay. Despite observing his fast, the governor remained at the scene for hours, supervising the evacuation of over 140 students and ensuring they were safely accounted for. Firefighters battled the flames for about three to four hours before bringing the situation under control. Describing the incident as “most unfortunate,” Idris expressed gratitude that no lives were lost. “We thank Almighty Allah that no life was lost in this incident. The safety of our children remains paramount to this administration. We will not treat this matter lightly,” the governor said. He noted that the presence of gas cylinders in some students’ rooms contributed to the intensity of the blaze. The governor commended the Kebbi State Fire Service for what he described as a “prompt and professional response,” saying their efforts prevented what could have been a major tragedy. “Our fire service personnel demonstrated courage and professionalism. Their timely intervention made a significant difference,” he stated. Idris reassured parents and guardians that all affected students are safe and have been temporarily relocated to the school’s main branch pending further assessment of the damaged structures. He also directed the immediate setting up of a high-powered committee to investigate the cause of the fire and recommend preventive measures. “We are constituting a committee to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and to advise government on measures to prevent a recurrence in any school across Kebbi State,” he said. Boarding schools, particularly Quranic and Arabic institutions across parts of northern Nigeria, often face safety challenges linked to overcrowding, electrical faults and improper handling of cooking appliances in hostels. Safety experts have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, including restrictions on the use of gas cylinders and other combustible materials in student accommodation. The Kebbi State Government has in recent years intensified efforts to improve infrastructure and welfare in both conventional and Islamic schools, with Idris reiterating that student safety remains a top priority of his administration. Saturday’s incident has renewed discussions on strengthening fire safety compliance in boarding facilities across the state. The investigative committee is expected to submit its report in the coming weeks.