The death toll from the alleged arson in Kano, reportedly committed by 38-year-old Shafiu Abubakar, has risen to 10, with 14 patients still fighting for their lives in the hospital,Daily Trust reports.
Daily Trust previously reported that a family dispute over inheritance escalated into tragedy in the quiet community of Larabar-Albasawa, near Gezawa, the headquarters of Gezawa LGA in Kano State.
Shafiu allegedly set a mosque on fire while worshippers were observing the early morning (Subh) prayer around 5:30 am.
The suspect reportedly sprayed the mosque area with petrol, locked the door, and set it ablaze, trapping about 40 worshippers inside.
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Initially, eight people were confirmed dead, with more than 20 others taken to the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano for treatment.
Yesterday, a Daily Trust reporter visited the hospital’s surgical ward where the patients were being treated.
The investigation revealed that of the 23 people admitted to the ward, nine had died. One person had previously died at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), bringing the total number of deceased to 10.
While visiting the rooms where the victims were being treated, the reporter learned that 14 patients were in critical condition.
A medical personnel, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “The survival chances of all the patients are around two percent.”
Meanwhile, the reporter met 25-year-old Shu’aibu Ibrahim, the only victim with mild injuries, who could walk and talk. Ibrahim was seen outside the ward with his sisters, silently mourning the losses.
A grieving mother, who lost her son, husband, and brother in the incident, said, “It has been a month of continuous mourning in the Larabar Albasawa community as many households have been affected by this tragedy.”
Earlier reports indicated that the family feud over inheritance had led to increased tensions and unrest within the community.
During the correspondent’s visit to the village on Wednesday, it was evident that the entire community was in a state of confusion and grief over the incident.
The suspect is currently in police custody in Kano for further investigation.
