Shafiu Aminu, a resident of Kano, deliberately set fire to a mosque located in Laraba Abasawa, Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State. The incident, reported by Daily Trust, occurred during the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in injuries to worshippers.
Witnesses stated that the community members were performing the ‘Subh’ prayer when the arsonist attacked. Using petrol, he ignited the fire while approximately 40 people were inside the mosque praying. After starting the fire, he locked the mosque, hindering the escape of those trapped inside. It took some time for people outside to become aware of the situation and rescue the victims.
At least 28 worshippers sustained serious injuries and were swiftly taken to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano for treatment.
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Upon visiting the scene, a resident named Ibrahim Jibrin recounted witnessing a boy running ablaze, seeking help. This isn’t the first time Aminu has committed such acts; previously, he assaulted his elder brothers and later turned himself in to the police, falsely claiming their murder.
Residents noted that this incident stems from longstanding misunderstandings within the family. Aminu voluntarily surrendered to the police following the arson.
Efforts to reach the Police command spokesperson in Kano, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, were unsuccessful, as calls to him were repeatedly declined.