The Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Bamalli, has described the decision to demolish the 188-year-old Malam Abdulkarim Central Mosque in Zaria as a painful one.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the mosque, Bamalli said that the Emirate Council struggled with the decision, but ultimately, safety had to come first.
“The safety and well-being of our people must always be our priority,” the Emir said solemnly.
Built in the 1830s, the Malam Abdulkarim Mosque had long stood as a symbol of faith, unity, and historical significance for the people of Zaria and beyond. However, after its tragic collapse on August 11, 2023, the decision was made to tear it down.
The collapse of the mosque occurred during the afternoon prayers, killing seven worshippers and injuring many others. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and brought the dire need for reconstruction into sharp focus.
Bamalli explained that despite the mosque’s historical value, the council could no longer ignore the dangers posed by its deteriorating condition. The Emir expressed his deep regret over the loss but emphasized that it was a necessary step for ensuring the safety of future worshippers.
“The collapse was a painful reminder that no matter how precious our history is, the safety of our people must always come first,” the Emir added.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, the Emir acknowledged the support of various groups and individuals in rebuilding the mosque. He praised the Kaduna State Government for its efforts to support victims of the 2023 collapse, including compensating families whose homes were affected by the expansion of the mosque.
Bamalli also thanked Alhaji Abdussamad Isyaka-Rabi’u, who made the largest donation towards the mosque’s reconstruction—an impressive N2 billion, channeled through ASR Africa and BUA Group.
This contribution was lauded as a significant step in ensuring the timely and successful completion of the project. “This is an example of what unity and support for a common cause can achieve,” the Emir said, visibly moved by the generosity.
Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and a prominent member of the Zaria community, also attended the ceremony. He described the collapsed mosque as one of Nigeria’s most significant historical monuments, particularly notable for its role in architectural history.
Tajudeen, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency, expressed his confidence that the mosque would be rebuilt within 18 months. However, he cautioned that only about half of the required funds had been secured so far.
“We have only reached 50% of the funding needed,” Tajudeen said, urging more philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the cause.
Tajudeen also reassured attendees that the National Assembly would continue to support the project, offering both financial and political backing to ensure its success.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, who was also present at the event, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the mosque’s reconstruction.
“The state government is in constant touch with all key stakeholders to ensure that we generate more funds to complete this important project,” Governor Sani said.
The governor’s statement highlighted the collaboration between various levels of government, local authorities, and private individuals in reviving this historic landmark.
The collapse of the mosque last year had a profound emotional and spiritual impact on the people of Zaria, many of whom had prayed in the mosque for generations. For some, the mosque symbolized a deep connection to their heritage and a sense of identity within the community.
“It was more than just a place of worship; it was a part of who we are,” said Alhaji Usman Abdullahi, a local resident. “This is why the rebuilding of the mosque is so important. We want future generations to experience the same sense of belonging and faith that we did.”
As the reconstruction effort gets underway, the people of Zaria and other well-wishers are hopeful that the mosque will rise again, not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of resilience, community, and unity.
The tragic collapse of the 188-year-old mosque has now turned into a mission to rebuild and preserve the cultural heritage of Zaria, while ensuring the safety of its worshippers for generations to come.
