Seven people were killed when part of a mosque collapsed while hundreds were inside performing Friday prayers, according to authorities in Kaduna state, northwest Nigeria. The Zaria Central Mosque is located in Zaria, one of the largest cities in northern Nigeria. The state emergency management agency reported that 23 people were injured and taken to the hospital by firefighters. Officials stated that the mosque was built in the 1930s. Video footage seemingly recorded at the scene showed a large opening where part of the roof had fallen.
At least four worshippers were confirmed dead, while seven others were injured during the collapse. The Emir of Zazzau, Mal Ahmed Bamalli, confirmed that the victims were observing the Asr prayer when the incident occurred. The victims were buried after a funeral prayer held in the mosque. Kaduna Governor Uba Sani ordered an immediate investigation into the disaster and promised assistance to those affected by the "tragic incident." The mosque's collapse follows more than ten similar incidents that occurred in Nigeria over the past year. Authorities often attribute such disasters to officials' failure to enforce building safety regulations and poor maintenance.
