By Our Correspondent

National News – A tragic fire outbreak in Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State, has claimed the lives of two young children belonging to a university lecturer.

The victims were reportedly burned beyond recognition after a devastating early-morning blaze engulfed their family residence, leaving the community in shock and grief.

Authorities confirmed that the incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. in the Layin Dabinai area, close to Masallacin Malam Babba in Dutse.

The victims were children of Aminuddeen Abubakar, a staff member of Federal University Dutse.

According to officials, the fire spread rapidly through the rooms where the children were sleeping, making rescue efforts extremely difficult despite attempts by emergency responders and neighbours.

The spokesperson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Jigawa State, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani, confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Dutse.

He explained that the fire’s intensity prevented emergency teams from saving the children, who were sadly confirmed dead at the scene after being severely burned.

Tijjani expressed deep sympathy to the grieving family and urged residents across the state to adopt stricter fire safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.

In a related development, another fire outbreak was recorded later the same day around noon within the Gida Dubu area of Dutse.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the second incident began from an electrical spark in the kitchen of a resident identified as Nura Garba.

Fortunately, emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and managed to contain the blaze before it caused casualties.

However, the fire reportedly spread to nearby houses, damaging kitchen areas and roofing sheets in several adjoining buildings.

Officials said the swift response of firefighters prevented what could have turned into another fatal disaster in the neighbourhood.

The civil defence command noted that investigations into both incidents are ongoing.

Authorities are expected to determine the exact causes of the fires and recommend preventive measures to reduce future fire outbreaks.

Residents were also advised to exercise caution when handling electrical appliances, gas cookers, and open flames within their homes.

The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property while encouraging communities to take fire prevention seriously.