By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Sokoto
Two children have died following a soil collapse at an excavation site in Boyekai town, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, in a tragic incident that has thrown the community into mourning.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning when the children reportedly went to dig laterite for home repairs ahead of the rainy season.
The victims, identified as Yahuza Ibrahim and Mubarak Dandare, were said to be 11 years old and below. They were said to have accompanied an elder sibling to a commonly used excavation site at about 10:00 a.m.
Eyewitnesses said the children had already begun digging when part of the soil suddenly gave way, burying them in the collapsed pit.
One resident, Yahaya Boyekai, said the tragedy was not immediately noticed, as those nearby initially did not realize what had happened.
“By the time people understood and rushed to the scene, it was already too late. The children had died before they could be rescued,” he said.
Their bodies were later recovered and buried the same day according to Islamic rites.
Another resident, Alhaji Alu Usha Boyekai, confirmed the incident, noting that more than two children were involved, while others were rescued alive and are currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the collapse.
He expressed concern over the recurring nature of such tragedies in the area, recalling a similar incident in the past that claimed a life during excavation activities.
The latest incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of informal excavation practices in rural communities, especially among children.
