Shi’ites/Army clash: Three persons rescued alive during removal of debris

Three persons have been rescued alive after spending three days under buildings damaged during recent clashes between the Nigerian Army and the Sheikh El-Zakzaky-led Shia movement in Zaria, the Special Assistant to Governor El-Rufai on media and publicity, Mr. Samuel Aruwan has disclosed.

He said, “Following the clashes between the Nigerian Army and Sheikh El-Zakzaky’s movement, it became clear that a number of buildings and other property had been damaged. The debris at the Husainiyah, in Gyellesu, and other locations constituted a danger to public safety.”

Noting that the relevant agencies are evacuating the debris, removing
dangerous materials such as twisted metal and glass shards, Aruwan revealed that “Some of the structures that were damaged at the sites of the clashes were deemed to be structurally unsound, and were also subsequently removed.”

The media aide called on residents to inform the authorities if they come across any item that looks unusual or suspicious or appears to be dangerous to themselves or their children.

He stated that “Public health considerations also informed the exercise to clear the debris. During operations to remove debris at the Husainiyah, two
persons were rescued alive after spending three days under the rubble.

“One person was pulled out alive from the Gyellesu site, while three
corpses were recovered at the Dambo village location.

“With the measures taken to search for and to rescue people trapped in the rubble, evacuate corpses and remove dangerous debris, the sites of
the clashes are no longer sources of peril to their communities.
Residents are assured that they can safely resume their legitimate
pursuits.”

The statement noted that as residents of the Gyellesu area begin
returning to their homes, the Kaduna State Government has put the necessary public safety and security measures in place for their comfort.

While commending residents who have heeded the appeal to return home, it urged those yet to do so to feel safe enough to come back as government has ordered the immediate restoration of electricity and water supplies to the area.