Sokoto Governor Aliyu Issues Urgent Fire Safety Warning to Women After Tragic Blaze
Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State has issued a critical public safety advisory, specifically targeting women in the state, urging heightened caution when handling cooking gas, stoves, and firewood during daily household activities. This urgent call to action was delivered on Monday evening as the governor extended condolences to Mande Maigona, a resident of the Gidan Igwai area, whose home was recently destroyed by a devastating fire. The inferno tragically claimed the life of Maigona's aide, Habibu, underscoring the severe risks associated with improper fuel management.
Governor Emphasizes Preventive Measures to Curb Fire Incidents
During his visit, Governor Aliyu emphasized that extra vigilance is essential when dealing with gas cylinders and other inflammable materials, which are frequently identified as primary causes of fire outbreaks in numerous communities across Sokoto. He described the blaze that consumed Maigona's residence as both unfortunate and devastating, highlighting the profound loss of life and property incurred. In a gesture of solidarity, the governor appealed to the victim to view the incident as a divine decree, offering prayers to avert future calamities.
"Our hearts are with you, Mande, and as a government, we will, Insha Allah, do everything humanly possible to assist you," Governor Aliyu pledged. He also expressed condolences over the death of Maigona's aide, praying for divine forgiveness for the deceased and strength for the bereaved family to endure their loss.
Governor Extends Condolences to Multiple Bereaved Families
In addition to the fire-related visit, Governor Aliyu conducted a series of condolence tours across Sokoto State, offering sympathy and support to families mourning recent deaths. He visited the Dambuwa Gidan Gabas area to console the family of Abubakar Mabera, a former driver to ex-Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, who passed away at age 73, leaving behind a wife and two children. The governor also paid respects to the family of the late Bello Gandi from the Low-Cost area, who died at 87, survived by two wives and eight children.
Other stops included the homes of the late Luba Ibrahim of Tudun Wada area, aged 72, who left 13 children; the late Aminu Bello of Majemar Korino area, aged 51, survived by his wife; and the late Bashiru Ibrahim of Tudun Wada area, aged 49, who is survived by one wife and 10 children. At each location, special prayers were offered for the eternal rest of the deceased souls, reflecting the governor's commitment to community support during times of grief.
Kwara State Fire Service Recovers Drowning Victims from Quarry Lake
In a separate but related safety incident, officers from the Kwara State Fire Service have recovered two corpses from a quarry lake at Opete, located in Asa Local Council. The victims, identified as Fatai Abdulrahman, 26, and Muhammed Awal, 27, reportedly drowned in the lake. According to Hassan Adekunle, the spokesperson for the fire service, the recovery operation took place at approximately 5:08 p.m., with firefighters successfully retrieving the bodies and handing them over to Mallam Abdulfatahi for necessary arrangements.
Alabi Muhammed, the Director of the state fire service, expressed deep sympathy over the tragic drowning and issued a stern warning to the public. He advised against swimming or engaging in activities in quarry lakes and other unsafe water locations, noting that these sites are often deep, unstable, and highly dangerous. Muhammed urged communities to implement access restrictions to such areas and to report emergencies promptly to prevent further loss of lives, reinforcing the broader theme of proactive safety measures highlighted by Governor Aliyu's warnings in Sokoto.
