Bauchi Lawmakers Probe Melinda Gates College Fire Incident

The Bauchi State House of Assembly, led by Zakariyya Gwaram, has initiated an investigation into a fire outbreak at Melinda Gates College of Health Technology in Ningi, which occurred on October 23, 2025. The fire reportedly destroyed critical infrastructure, including the college library, computer laboratories, and vital records.

The joint committee on health and public accounts found evidence suggesting human involvement in the fire, with the Bauchi State Fire Service uncovering suspicious materials at the scene. Although suspects have been arrested, no conclusive identification for prosecution has been made.

The lawmakers expressed concerns about deeper institutional crises, including persistent internal conflicts, inadequate security arrangements, and financial mismanagement. The college has been operating beyond its capacity, with 1,450 students enrolled, compromising academic standards.

The committee recommended an immediate overhaul of the college's management and called for a forensic audit of its finances, urging the government to invest in critical infrastructure and enhance security measures.