A devastating incident in the Bulumkutu area of Maiduguri, Borno State, has resulted in the death of five children after a residential wall collapsed on them.
Police Confirm Fatal Incident
The Borno State Police Command confirmed the tragic event, which occurred on Sunday evening. The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, stated that the command received a report at about 8:00 p.m. through the Bulumkutu Division regarding the collapse of a house wall.
According to the police spokesperson, the wall fell on six children who were in the vicinity. Five of the victims, all reported to be under the age of 16, lost their lives at the scene. The sixth child sustained injuries and was rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri for urgent medical treatment.
Investigation and Public Warning
ASP Daso emphasized that the police have immediately launched a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal collapse. "We have immediately commenced investigation into the fence collapse and other issues surrounding the trapping of the children in Bulumkutu community," he said.
The probe aims to determine if any acts of negligence or structural failures contributed to the disaster. The police officer urged the public, particularly builders, landlords, and parents, to prioritize safety.
He issued a strong advisory, calling for:
- Maintenance of good structural standards during building construction.
- Constant vigilance by parents and guardians over the movements of their children.
- Mindfulness of structural positioning and integrity of buildings in communities.
A Recurring Hazard in Maiduguri
This tragedy highlights an ongoing issue of building safety and structural failures in the region. It is related to a previous incident reported on 30 July 2025, where a heavy downpour collapsed eight buildings in Maiduguri, displacing numerous residents.
The recurring nature of such collapses points to potential underlying problems with building standards, maintenance, and the impact of weather on aging or poorly constructed structures.
The community of Bulumkutu and the wider Maiduguri metropolis are now mourning this profound loss, as authorities work to prevent a repeat of such a heartbreaking event.
