The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has suggested that the federal government and the government of Kaduna state should investigate the cause of the collapse of a section of the Zaria central mosque.
It was reported on Friday, August 11, 2023, that the mosque collapsed while some worshippers were observing prayers.
No fewer than 30 people reportedly sustained various degrees of injuries in the incident which killed four people.
Reacting, CAN president, Daniel Okoh, asked that the incident should be investigated.
Okoh made the call in a condolence message he addressed to the Zaria Muslim community.
A survivor of the incident, Shehu Nagari, had told newsmen earlier that the collapsed section of the mosque, which was built with mud, had existed for over 150 years.
However, in the statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, Okoh said that the investigation would help prevent a repeat of the accident, while urging the government to ensure safety in all places of worship across the country.
Okoh expressed sympathy with the Muslim community and the state government on the loss of lives as a result of the collapse and prayed for comfort for the bereaved families.
“We also extend our thoughts and prayers to the 25 individuals who sustained injuries and pray for their quick and complete recovery,” Okoh said.
Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli, said the walls of the mosque had cracked and there were plans to repair them before the incident.
He directed that prayers be held outside the mosque until the repairs are done.
