Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has donated N20 million to victims of the Thursday evening fire outbreak at the female hostel of Gombe State University.

Mr Yahaya announced the donation during his assessment visit to the institution on Monday to commiserate with the students and management of the institution.

He also directed the immediate construction of a modern hostel that would accommodate more students.

“I reached out to the fire brigade and also the management of the university, who assured me that the fire had been controlled.’

“I am giving a directive to the State Commissioner for Higher Education to process the sum of N20 million, and let it be released on Tuesday.

“The money should be shared among the victims and the student union and those who were traumatised by the fire,” he said.

The governor expressed his displeasure over the non-compliance of students with the “no-cooking-in-the-hostel” rule while directing the management to enforce the rule in the interest of the safety of students.

He further directed the management of the institution to put in measures to respond to emergencies while improving firefighting facilities in the varsity.

“I have also directed the fire department to conduct an investigation.

“ In the course of that investigation, they should not only provide immediate solutions but also recommend future preventive measures so that we can avoid such incidents altogether.

Abubakar Bafeto, the registrar of the institution, on behalf of lecturers, students, and the entire varsity community, appreciated Mr Yahaya for his visit and support.

“Your presence demonstrates your concern for the students and the entire Gombe State University community; We are deeply thankful,” he said.

(NAN)