File photo: Unrelated photo of floods after heavy rainfall
By Deborah Nnamdi
A devastating tragedy unfolded in Dankama Local Government Area of Katsina State as a mother and her five children lost their lives when their home collapsed during a heavy downpour.
The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on Tuesday while the family was asleep. According to reports, the building gave way under the force of the rainfall, leading to the deaths of six family members.
Muhammad Sani, the father of the children, confirmed the heartbreaking news to journalists in Katsina. He said he was away from home at the time of the incident and returned to find his family gone.
“This affected about ten people, but sadly, six didn’t survive. Three others are currently receiving treatment in the hospital,” he said.
The victims were identified as Mariya Sani, 45; Mujahid, 20; Zahariya, 18; Hauwa, 15; Amira, and five-year-old Nura Sani.
Despite the magnitude of the loss, Sani expressed faith in the face of tragedy. “The pain is unimaginable, but I surrender to Allah’s will. May He grant them eternal rest,” he said.
The incident has plunged the community into mourning, with neighbours and relatives flocking to the family’s home to offer condolences and support.
The Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hajiya Binta Dangani, confirmed the incident and said officials had been dispatched to the area to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that emergency response efforts are ongoing.
