Fire guts female hostel annex at Gombe state university

Panic broke out at Gombe State University on Thursday night when a fire engulfed the Female Hostel Annex, forcing students to flee in fear.

Eyewitnesses reported that the blaze started around 9:30 p.m., sending shockwaves across the campus as terrified students scrambled for safety. In the rush to escape, many were unable to salvage their personal belongings, which were consumed by the flames.

Before fire service officials could arrive, both male and female students made desperate attempts to put out the inferno. Despite their efforts, large portions of the hostel were destroyed.

Confirming the incident, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Hadu Ligari, said in a statement: “This is to inform the University Community, parents, guardians, and the general public that there was a fire incident at the Female Hostel Annex yesterday, October 2, 2025, at about 9:00pm.

“We are grateful to confirm that no life was lost, and the situation has since been brought under control.

“The University Management is currently assessing the cause and extent of the incident. A comprehensive statement will be issued in due course.”

Sources within the institution said that the fire may have been triggered by cooking gas used by students in the hostel. The university had only recently lifted its ban on the use of gas cylinders for cooking in student accommodations.