Three children die in Kaduna pit latrine while retrieving phone for ₦1,000 reward

Three children aged between 12 and 15 died in a pit latrine in Kaduna State while attempting to retrieve an Android phone for a promised ₦1,000 reward, prompting three days of mourning in their community.

Three children have reportedly died inside a pit latrine in Tudun Kusa village, Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, while attempting to retrieve a mobile phone for a ₦1,000 reward.

According to Daily Post, the victims, identified as Najjashi, 12, Mohammed, 13, and Ashafa, 15, entered the pit separately on Thursday.

Area councillor Hashimu Muhammad said a resident, Murtala, promised ₦1,000 to anyone who recovered his Android phone.

“Murtala promised to give N1,000 to any child who could retrieve his phone. This prompted Najjashi, the youngest, to enter the pit, but shortly afterwards, there was silence,” he said.

Mohammed subsequently entered to rescue Najjashi, followed by Ashafa, but neither returned.

Residents reportedly lowered a chicken into the pit, which also died, suggesting dangerous conditions inside.

The children’s bodies were later recovered using a hook and buried according to Islamic rites.

The pit, originally a dried-up well, has since been sealed.

The community declared three days of mourning following the tragedy.