Three Killed, One Injured in Separate Kano Fire Outbreaks
The Kano State Fire Service has confirmed the deaths of three people and injuries to another in two unrelated fire emergencies that occurred on Friday across the state.
The agency disclosed the incidents in a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesperson, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi.
According to the statement, the first tragedy unfolded around 1:30 p.m. when a petrol tanker laden with 30,000 litres of fuel overturned and exploded at the Kura Market junction along the Zaria Road corridor.
The truck, identified by registration number NGZ 250 XA, reportedly struck a motorcycle rider before erupting into flames.
The Fire Service said its Emergency Response Unit mobilised immediately after receiving a distress call from a retired Civil Defence officer, Danlami Muhammad. Upon arrival, responders found the tanker engulfed in a massive blaze.
“Four individuals were involved in the incident. Three were pulled out unconscious and were later confirmed dead, while the motorcyclist managed to survive,” the statement noted.
Firefighters, assisted by personnel from the police and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), eventually brought the inferno under control.
The remains of the victims were subsequently handed over to ASP Ahmad Lawan of the Kura Police Division. Two firefighting trucks—one from the state headquarters and another from the Kura station—were deployed to the scene.
Authorities say the cause of the accident is still being probed.
A second fire incident occurred later at about 2:45 p.m. at Hamisu Plaza on Maiduguri Road in Taruni Local Government Area. The blaze had already consumed the top floor of the two-storey commercial complex before responders arrived.
Three shops were completely burnt, while firefighters were able to prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the plaza.
A fire truck stationed at the ongoing trade fair was dispatched to the location to assist in the operation.
The Fire Service urged residents and business owners to prioritise safety measures and promptly report emergencies to minimise casualties and property loss.
