Tragic Fire in Plateau: Mother Loses Six Children in Mangu Town Blaze

Residents of Mangu town in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State are mourning the devastating loss of six siblings who perished in a late-night fire incident on Thursday. The tragic event has left the community in shock and grief.

A local resident, Saidu Nasir, confirmed the heartbreaking news to Saturday PUNCH in Jos on Friday, stating, “Six children sadly lost their lives in the fire. I personally know their father; he works as a vulcanizer. At this moment, the family is engulfed in deep mourning. I pray that God grants them strength and comfort during this painful period.”

Family members revealed that the deceased children, who were residents of the Old Mangu Market area, were aged between four months and 12 years.

The children’s uncle, Umar Babangida, disclosed that the fire broke out at approximately 2 a.m., catching the family off guard. The mother, in a desperate attempt to rescue her children, suffered severe burns and is currently receiving medical care at Allah Nakowa Hospital, Mangu.

Aliyu, another relative, described the events leading to the tragedy: “The mother and her nine children were watching television until about 11 p.m. After that, the three older boys went to sleep, leaving the mother with the six younger children. Unfortunately, around 2:30 a.m., we received an urgent distress call that the house was engulfed in flames.”

He added, “The exact cause of the fire is still unknown. We only know that there was an active power supply when they went to bed. The mother bravely tried to save her children, but sadly, she could not get them all out in time, resulting in the injuries she sustained.”

In a show of solidarity, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the Mangu Local Government chairman visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and support. The governor encouraged the family to find solace in their faith during this trying period and assured them of government assistance to rebuild the destroyed property.

Aliyu expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, saying, “During the fire outbreak, we witnessed an incredible outpouring of love from both Muslims and Christians who came together to offer assistance. We are thankful to everyone who rushed to help during the tragic incident.”

The Plateau fire incident has reignited concerns over residential fire safety in the state, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and community awareness to avoid similar tragedies in the future.