A midnight inferno occurred around the old Mangu market in the Mangu local government area of Plateau State. The fire has claimed the lives of six members of Malam Sanusi Maifaci’s family in the area.
The family of the victims stated that the deceased ranged in age from four months to twelve years.
Umar Basbangida Aliyu, an uncle of the victims, recounted the incident, explaining that the fire started around 2 a.m. on Thursday when family members were already asleep, claiming the lives of the children.
Aliyu noted that the deceased’s mother was badly injured and is currently receiving treatment at Allah Nakowa Hospital in Mangu town.
“The mother and her nine children were watching TV until 11 p.m., and the three males among them went to sleep, leaving the mother with the six children.
He said, “We cannot categorically state the cause of the fire, but all we know is that there was electricity before they went to bed. Around 2:30 a.m., we were informed that fire had engulfed the house. The mother tried all she could to bring her children out of the room but couldn’t. That was why she sustained burn wounds,” he added.
According to the deceased’s uncle, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the Mangu LGA chairman have visited the affected family, urging them to take solace in the Lord, adding that the governor has promised to support the family in rebuilding their home.
“The governor and our local government chairman have visited us to offer their condolences. We are grateful to all those who came to the family’s aid during the incident. During the fire outbreak, we witnessed love from both Muslims and Christians who came in their numbers to help rescue the victims,” Aliyu said.
It was gathered that the incident has thrown members of the community into mourning, with many sympathisers visiting the victim’s family home to offer their condolences.
