Traders and shop owners at the Nkwọ Umunze market in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State are counting their losses after a midnight fire ravaged the market, reducing goods to ashes. The fire broke out around 1:20 am on Wednesday, February 21, prompting a swift response from the Anambra State Fire Service.
Reports indicate that the inferno engulfed several shops, including those selling women’s artificial hair, provisions, and plastic items, before firefighters managed to contain it.
Engr. Martin Agbili, the Anambra State Fire Chief, attributed the fire to a suspected power surge from electrical appliances in one of the shops. Thankfully, there were no casualties reported, but the blaze left approximately four shops severely damaged.
In a statement addressing the incident, Agbili emphasized the importance of turning off electrical and electronic appliances when not in use to prevent such disasters. He commended the efforts of firefighters, traders, and members of the public who assisted in controlling the fire.
The unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and caution to prevent future occurrences of fire outbreaks in markets and other public places.