By Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

3 minutes read. Updated 1:00PM GMT Fri, 28, 2024

A catastrophic fire has wreaked havoc on Karu Market in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, causing extensive damage and leaving traders in disarray. The blaze, which broke out Thursday evening, has resulted in the destruction of goods and properties worth millions of naira, plunging the market community into despair.

As flames engulfed the market, traders could be seen weeping and lamenting their losses. “Everything has burnt down. I could not recover anything. This is where we feed from. Ah, my children’s school fees are there,” cried one distraught trader. Another trader, overwhelmed by the devastation, expressed her anguish: “I cannot hold myself, I am in pain – I don’t know if the government can help us. My money that has gone here is over ₦10 million. I am tired and I don’t know where to start.”

The FCT Fire Service, located within Karu Market, responded promptly to the fire. However, their efforts were hindered by the massive crowd that gathered, obstructing access to the scene. Despite these challenges, a combined team of the FCT Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, and Julius Berger Fire Service worked tirelessly to contain the blaze. Soldiers were also present to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Cause and Impact

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have been triggered by an electrical surge, which quickly spread throughout the market. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but the impact on the community is undeniable. The FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has emphasized the importance of access roads in firefighting operations, as the lack of clear pathways significantly delayed their response.

Official Statements

Florence Wenegieme, Acting Director General of FEMD, highlighted the difficulties faced by firefighters. “The illegal market/settlement behind the new market under construction was engulfed by fire. We had enough firetrucks and firemen, but we could not gain access to the market, so we had to break walls to have access to the firefighting hose. That was what caused the delay in putting out the fire,” she explained.

Despite the significant property losses, no lives were lost in the incident. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with officials working diligently to determine the exact circumstances that led to the outbreak.

In the aftermath of the fire, the community is calling for government assistance to help traders recover from their losses. The Nigeria Police, Nigeria Army, and Civil Defense Corps were on the scene to control the crowd and provide support. The need for better infrastructure and emergency preparedness has been underscored by this tragic event.

For more information on how you can assist the affected traders, visit here.