Zamfara fire incident : Catholic Church commiserates with victims

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire that engulfed an Islamic school in Kauran Namoda, Zamfara State, claiming the innocent lives of 17 children and leaving several others injured.

“We at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) received with profound grief the tragic news of the fire that consumed an Islamic school in Kauran Namoda, Zamfara State, leading to the heartbreaking loss of 17 innocent children and injuring several others,” the statement read.

A statement signed by the Secretary General of CSN, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo, and the Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, described the incident as a “grave loss not only to the affected families but to the entire nation.”

The CSN extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Zamfara State, and the Islamic community over the tragedy.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Zamfara State, the Islamic community, and all Nigerians affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

“The loss of these young lives is a profound sorrow that resonates across the nation, and we share in your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of unimaginable pain, asking for God’s comfort and strength to sustain you.

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“Additionally, we pray for the swift and complete recovery of the injured, trusting that God’s healing presence will bring them peace and restoration in both body and spirit,” the statement noted.

The Catholic Church further emphasized that this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize safety measures nationwide.

CSN lamented the recurring loss of lives in Nigeria, often due to preventable causes and inadequate safety measures.

“In many cases, the fire service is either nonexistent, non-functional, or ill-equipped to respond effectively to emergencies. We stand united with all Nigerians in calling for an immediate and renewed commitment to safeguarding human life.

“At all times, in all places, and by all means, the sacredness of human life must be defended and protected.

“We, therefore, urgently call on the government and relevant stakeholders to enforce stringent safety standards not only in schools but across all sectors of society.

“It is imperative that we take immediate action to prevent the recurrence of such devastating incidents in the future and ensure that no more lives are lost due to avoidable negligence.

“We implore the government to prioritize the protection and security of human life in our nation, recognizing that every life is sacred and deserves to be safeguarded.

“May the souls of these young ones, whose lives were tragically cut short, rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the statement concluded.