A tragic fire in Borno State has resulted in the death of Aliyu Mohammed, the Vice Principal of Dugja Bayan Tasha Junior Secondary School in Biu Local Government Area, along with his wife and three children.
The fire broke out on Sunday, February 3, and the cause remains unclear. Neighbors described the family’s desperate attempt to escape the flames, but they were ultimately unsuccessful. One local resident, Kabiru Musa, suggested the fire may have been triggered by an electrical spark in the living room, which quickly spread throughout the house, blocking all escape routes. “We suspect it was caused by an electric spark in the living room, which later engulfed all parts of the house. It’s a very devastating incident,” Musa said. He added, “I learnt that Malam Aliyu Mohammed and his family struggled to escape, but they were suffocated by the smoke and prevented by the burglar-proof.”
The Southern Borno Progressive Union released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a significant blow to the community and the education sector. “We extend our deepest condolences on the tragic passing of Aliyu Mohammed, Vice Principal of Dugja B/Tasha JSS, and his entire family due to the devastating fire outbreak,” the statement read. “This is a heartbreaking loss for the community and a great blow to the education sector in Borno, where his selfless service and dedication have contributed significantly to the growth of education in the state.”
The remains of Aliyu Mohammed and his family have been buried in Biu, in accordance with Islamic rites, leaving the community and educational sector in mourning.
