By Gwurld4026 
Borno IDP Camp Fire Claims Two Lives
A devastating fire erupted at the Mandalari Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, resulting in the tragic loss of at least two lives. The blaze, which ignited around 11:25 am on Friday, February 28, 2025, rapidly spread through the densely populated camp, destroying makeshift shelters and personal belongings. Several individuals sustained injuries, and numerous families, already displaced by insurgency, have been rendered homeless once again.
Security personnel, including troops from Operation Hadin Kai stationed in Konduga, promptly responded to the emergency. They collaborated with emergency responders and community members to control the inferno and evacuate victims. Despite their efforts, reports indicate that the fire was still active as of the latest updates, with concerns that the death toll might rise.
Community leaders and IDPs have expressed gratitude for the swift intervention by the military and other agencies. The local Bulama (community head) acknowledged the critical support provided by security forces, noting, “We are grateful for their assistance. Without the military’s quick intervention, the situation could have been much worse.”
This incident highlights a recurring issue, as IDP camps in Borno State have frequently experienced fire outbreaks, often resulting in casualties and significant property loss. Overcrowding, the use of flammable building materials, and open cooking fires contribute to the vulnerability of these settlements. In March 2024, a fire at the Muna Alamdari IDP camp in Maiduguri led to the deaths of two children and the destruction of approximately 1,200 tents.
The Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the Mandalari camp fire. In the interim, there is an urgent need for relief materials, including food, clothing, and building supplies, to support the affected families.