Water Tank Tragedy Claims Four Lives in Jigawa Community
A devastating incident in Zugai village, Roni Local Government Area of Jigawa State has left the community in mourning after an overhead water tank collapsed on residents, killing four women including a pregnant woman.
The tragedy occurred on Tuesday afternoon, November 18, 2025 when villagers had gathered to fetch water from the community's solar-powered borehole facility.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Disaster
According to eyewitness Imrana Miko, the water tank gave way while dozens of residents were standing beneath it waiting to collect water. Three people died instantly at the scene, while many others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for emergency treatment.
Local residents pointed to structural weaknesses as the primary cause of the collapse. One villager, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the supporting pillars had significantly deteriorated over time and could no longer bear the weight of the fully filled tank.
Official Confirmation and Response
Comrade Musa Lawal, Chairman of the Maranda Development Association, confirmed the incident and described the scene as heartbreaking. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in what should have been a routine community activity.
Dr. Abba Ya'u Roni, Chairman of Roni Local Government Council, provided additional context, explaining that strong winds contributed to the collapse. "The incident was caused by a strong wind while people were busy fetching water. The wind pushed the tank, and it collapsed on the people," he stated.
In a move to support the affected families, the local government council has taken responsibility for all medical bills of the injured victims. Dr. Roni extended his sympathies to the victims and their families while praying for eternal rest for the deceased.
The community of Zugai village now faces the difficult task of recovering from this tragedy while questioning the structural integrity of other public facilities in the area.
