- The damage caused was substantial, with properties worth millions of naira reduced to ashes
A severe fire has destroyed the residence of Bilyaminu Moriki, the Speaker of the Zamfara House of Assembly, located in Gusau.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Sunday, was confirmed in a statement released by Bello Madaro, the Chief Press Secretary to the Zamfara State House of Assembly, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to Mahmud Aliyu, the Clerk of the Zamfara House of Assembly, while no lives were lost in the fire, the damage caused was substantial, with properties worth millions of naira reduced to ashes. Aliyu described the event as a major setback, noting that the speaker’s residence had been completely razed, leaving behind extensive destruction.
“The management of the Zamfara Assembly was shocked over the fire incident which occurred on Sunday, razing down the Speaker’s residence in Gusau,” Aliyu said. He emphasized that the Assembly was deeply saddened by the loss and expressed the shared grief of both lawmakers and staff.
Aliyu, on behalf of the Assembly, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Speaker and his family during this difficult time. He urged them to view the incident as a divine act, destined by God, and assured the Speaker of the full support of his colleagues and staff as he navigates through the aftermath of the fire.
He added, “While we are grateful that no lives were lost, it is a deeply distressing situation for the Speaker and his family. Our thoughts are with them, and we extend our deepest sympathies.”
In his remarks, Aliyu expressed hope that such disasters would not occur again, stating, “On behalf of the entire staff and members of the House, I extend our heartfelt sympathy over this unfortunate incident. We pray that God provides the Speaker and his family the strength to recover from this loss.”
The cause of the fire remains unclear, and no official statement has been made regarding the investigation into the incident. However, the Assembly has pledged to provide all necessary support to the Speaker and his family during the recovery process.
The fire has raised concerns over fire safety and preparedness in Gusau and other parts of Zamfara State. Local authorities have called for increased vigilance and measures to prevent future incidents, particularly as the dry season approaches, which often brings a higher risk of fire outbreaks.
Meanwhile, well-wishers and political figures across Zamfara State and beyond have expressed their sympathies and support for Speaker Moriki, offering prayers for a quick recovery from the devastating loss.