29/05/2026
For the daughters of Utumishi Girls Academy
What should have been
a place of safety,
of whispered dreams after lights out,
of laughter echoing through corridors,
became a sealed chamber
of panic, smoke, and desperation.
Walls meant to protect
stood silent against fear.
Windows watched helplessly
as young voices cried into the darkness,
searching for air,
for comfort,
for rescue,
for home.
Tonight, a nation mourns.
Not only for what was lost,
but for innocence interrupted,
for futures shaken,
for hearts that will never forget
the sound of that terrifying night.
To every girl who trembled in fear,
to every parent whose heart broke waiting for news,
to every teacher, friend, and loved one carrying pain too heavy for words —
we hold you close in prayer and sorrow.
May those who survived
find healing deeper than the scars.
May those who grieve
find strength in the embrace of a grieving nation.
And may every child everywhere
never again have to wonder
whether the place they sleep
is safe.
The smoke may fade,
the sirens may fall silent,
but the hearts of Utumishi Girls
will forever remain written
into the soul of the nation.
