The Gombe State Government has pledged its support to the Christian community after a devastating fire gutted the ECWA Gospel Church auditorium near Ashaka Road. The blaze, which took place on the night of July 7, 2026, ruined the building’s roof, furniture, electronic hardware, and the pastor’s office, leaving the local congregation without a venue for services.
Deputy Governor Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau led an official delegation to inspect the wreckage. He expressed deep regret over the event and highlighted the vital role religious centers play in the community. Jatau requested that the church conduct a full audit of the damages to help facilitate state intervention. He further encouraged citizens and religious bodies to be diligent with electrical maintenance to prevent future hazards.
Rev. Dr. Isaac Laudarji, representing the ECWA trustees, called the destruction a significant blow to the church’s regional presence. Similar sentiments were shared by the Gombe State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Joseph Alphonsus Shinga, who urged public-spirited individuals to contribute to the rebuilding process.
Rev. Dr. Gideon Danbauchi, the pastor of the church, noted that early evidence points to an electrical fault as the primary cause. He emphasized that the scale of the destruction is far beyond the financial reach of the congregation, necessitating support from external donors and the government. Parishioners are currently compiling a detailed report of the losses to assist with the reconstruction efforts.
