ABUJA — The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) has urged the government to enforce stricter safety regulations and improve emergency response systems following a devastating fire at an Islamic school in Kauran Namoda, Zamfara State. The inferno claimed the lives of 17 innocent children and left several others with severe injuries, plunging the nation into mourning.
In a heartfelt statement signed by its Secretary General, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo, and Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, the Catholic Church expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, extending condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Zamfara State, and the Islamic community.
“This heartbreaking incident serves as yet another painful reminder of the dire need to prioritize safety in our schools and public spaces. The loss of these young lives is a national tragedy, and we stand in solidarity with their families during this time of immense grief.”
The Church strongly condemned the country’s poor emergency response infrastructure, highlighting the dire state of fire services in many parts of Nigeria. It criticized the lack of functional, well-equipped fire stations and the slow response time of emergency agencies, which often result in avoidable deaths.
> “It is disheartening that in the 21st century, preventable disasters like this still occur due to inadequate safety measures and an ineffective emergency response system. The government must act decisively to protect lives and prevent further tragedies.”
The CSN emphasized that human life is sacred and must be protected at all costs. It called for the immediate implementation of stronger safety measures in schools, religious institutions, and other public spaces to prevent similar catastrophes.
It urged the government to:
Establish and enforce stringent fire safety regulations in schools and other public facilities.
Ensure all educational and religious institutions have functional fire prevention and response systems.
Invest in modern firefighting equipment and well-trained personnel to enhance emergency response efficiency.
The Catholic Church reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the protection of human life and safety. It called on religious and community leaders to work with the government in promoting fire safety awareness and preventive measures.
> “May the souls of these young ones, whose lives were cut short so tragically, rest in perfect peace. May their deaths not be in vain, but serve as a wake-up call for urgent reforms. Amen.”
With the nation still reeling from this tragedy, the CSN’s call for action underscores the urgent need for a proactive, well-equipped, and responsive safety infrastructure that can prevent further loss of lives.
PIONEER NEWS 