Tragedy struck Zugai village in Roni Local Government Area, Jigawa State, on Tuesday afternoon when an overhead water tank collapsed on residents, killing four women—including a pregnant woman—and injuring several others.

The tank, which supplied water from a solar-powered borehole, gave way while dozens of villagers were gathered beneath it to fetch water.

Eyewitness Imrana Miko told reporters, “Three people died on the spot, while many others were injured and rushed to the hospital.”

Another resident suggested the collapse was due to structural weakness, noting that the supporting pillars had weakened under the tank’s weight.

Comrade Musa Lawal, Chairman of the Maranda Development Association, described the incident as heartbreaking. Roni Local Government Council Chairman Dr. Abba Ya’u Roni confirmed the deaths and said strong winds contributed to the collapse.

“The incident was caused by strong winds while people were fetching water. The wind pushed the tank, and it collapsed on the people,” he explained.

Dr. Roni added that the council would cover all medical expenses for the injured and expressed condolences, praying for the eternal rest of the victims.