At least 17 children died in a fire at an Islamic school in northern Nigeria.
Several other students were injured and taken to the health center in Kauran Namoda town in Zamfara State for treatment.
It is believed that a fire broke out in a nearby house and spread to schools on Tuesday night while the children, believed to be teenagers, were sleeping.
Local authorities and emergency personnel were sent to the scene, but the fire has caused significant casualties.
Witnesses from Yahaya Mahi told the location of the BBC Hausa school makes it difficult for those trying to stop the fire.
“Even if firefighters arrive on time, it will be difficult to get to the house due to the narrow road leading to it,” he said.
Local official Mannir Haidara said other Islamic schools will be inspected to make sure they are not fire risks.
“We will take steps to prevent another of this nature from happening,” he said.
The father of one victim told BBC Hausa that he had suffered a torture, but his faith in God is currently comforting him.
