JNI, which is under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, in a statement issued by its Secretary General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu on Saturday, described the incident as a “painful reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of accidents”.
An Islamic organisation, Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has sent its heartfelt condolences to the Zazzau Emirate, the families of the deceased, and the entire Muslim Ummah following the collapse of a mosque during prayers in the ancient city of Zaria in Kaduna State.
JNI, which is under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, in a statement issued by its Secretary General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu on Saturday, described the incident as a “painful reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of accidents”.
It described the mosque as a “sacred place of worship and unity for the Muslim Ummah”.
The death toll from the incident which occurred on Friday rose to 12 on Saturday.
The Sultan of Sokoto is considered the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria.
The JNI urged everyone to join hands in supporting and comforting the affected families during this “challenging time”.
The statement reads in part, “It is with deep sorrow that we learned about the collapse of a part of the mosque, resulting in the loss of precious lives and leaving several others injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and we pray for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries during this unfortunate incident.”
The JNI called on the authorities to conduct a “thorough investigation to determine the causes of this tragic incident”.
“Safety measures should be reviewed and implemented where necessary to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that places of worship are safe havens for worshippers,” it said.
“As we extend our condolences and prayers to the Zazzau Emirate and the Muslim Ummah, we also implore Allah (SWT) for protection against future accidents and calamities.
“May He grant strength and patience to the families of the deceased, and may He grant complete healing to those who are recovering from their injuries.
“The Jama'atu Nasril Islam stands in solidarity with the Zazzau Emirate during this challenging time. We will continue to identify with the Ummah and the entire humanity, seeking ways to help ease the pain caused by this tragic incident.
“May Allah (SWT) grant Magfirah, Rahmah, peace and serenity to the souls of the departed, and may He bestow patience and resilience upon the entire Muslim Ummah as we navigate through this difficult period.”