fire incident at the old Karu Market in Abuja has caused significant losses to traders and created a scene of despair among those affected
Goods and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed in the blaze, leaving traders devastated. The fire, suspected to have been caused by an electrical surge, spread rapidly and was difficult to contain initially due to challenges in accessing the market area amidst a large crowd.
Traders who lost their wares expressed deep anguish over their losses, with some estimating their financial setbacks to be over ₦10 million. Despite the efforts of various firefighting teams including the FCT Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, and Julius Berger Fire Service, it took time to gain access to the fire due to structural barriers at the market.
The Acting Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Department, Florence Wenegieme, emphasized the importance of access in firefighting operations and noted that investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties, but the impact on the community remains substantial.
Security personnel from the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Army, and Civil Defense Corps were present to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone involved during the incident.
