A devastating fire outbreak ravaged Karu Market in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, destroying goods and properties worth millions of naira.
The fire broke out around 7 pm on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Despite efforts by the FCT Fire Service stationed at Karu Market, accessing the scene was hindered by a large crowd.
Traders, devastated by the inferno, were seen lamenting over their irrecoverable losses.
“My entire stock is gone, I couldn’t salvage anything. This is our livelihood, my children’s school fees were in there,” cried one trader.
“I am in utter disbelief, I don’t know where to begin. I estimate my losses at over N10 million,” another trader exclaimed.
Amidst the chaos, soldiers were deployed to maintain order and ensure everyone’s safety.
Preliminary investigations indicate the fire likely started from an electrical surge, rapidly spreading through parts of the market.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but the impact on the community is profound.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire and are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the outbreak.
Florence Wenegieme, Acting Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), emphasized the critical importance of access during firefighting operations.
She noted that despite sufficient resources and prompt response from the FCT Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, and Julius Berger Fire Service, accessing the market was challenging due to its location behind a new market under construction.
Wenegieme clarified that the fire affected an illegal market/settlement and expressed appreciation for the Department of Engineering Services for activating Julius Berger Fire Service.
“No lives were lost in the incident, but the financial losses are significant,” she added, affirming the presence of Nigeria Police, Nigeria Army, and Civil Defense Corps to manage the crowd.
The Acting DG praised the coordinated efforts but emphasized the ongoing investigation into the fire’s cause.
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