At least eight Almajiri students are believed to have perished when a section of Dukk Hill in the Badariya area of Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, reportedly caved in on them.
The headteacher of Tsagniya school, Dan Umma, confirmed the incident and mentioned that it took place on Saturday morning.
He explained, "I have not determined the cause yet. I was alerted by the sounds of people at the rear of the house, only to discover that a large part of the hill had collapsed on the Almajiris, instantly killing eight of them. One was rescued from the debris and has been admitted to the hospital."
"The hill is just behind my house, where the almajiris and I reside. It's also where they use as a toilet and dig for clay to make clay blocks for constructing a small room for themselves."
Neighbors gathered at the site of the incident to witness the collapsed part of the hill and offer condolences to the Islamic cleric.
Dukku Hill is extensive and extends to residential areas due to the growing population and housing issues.
The deceased have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic customs.
Attempts to contact the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Nafiu Abubakar, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls at the time of reporting.
