Traders in the bustling Nkpor Main market, located in the heart of Idemili North Local Government Area in Anambra state, faced a harrowing day as a fierce fire erupted, leaving destruction in its wake and consuming goods estimated at a staggering N300 million.
The unfortunate incident unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday, casting a somber mood over the local commercial hub situated near the bustling city of Onitsha.
According to reports, the inferno swiftly engulfed a section of the market, laying waste to fewer than 30 shops before the quick response of vigilant traders averted further catastrophe.
Before the arrival of the state fire service, the determined traders banded together and managed to quell the flames, showcasing commendable unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Paul Okafor, the Chairman of the market, expressed his confirmation of the tragic event during a press briefing in his office.
Okafor revealed that the fire originated from a cold room shop and swiftly spread to nearby establishments, exacerbating the scale of the disaster.
“We call on the state and local governments, as well as public-spirited individuals and groups, to extend a helping hand to the affected traders, enabling them to recover and resume business at the earliest opportunity,” urged Okafor.
The aftermath of the fire left a trail of devastation, with goods worth over N300 million reduced to ashes.
The affected traders now find themselves grappling with the daunting task of assessing and tallying their losses, a bitter reality that adds an unwelcome layer of hardship to the festive season.
As the community confronts the aftermath of this calamity, the plea for support echoes through Okafor’s words, “This is not good for this yuletide.”
The rallying cry for assistance underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to rebuild what the flames mercilessly consumed, offering a glimmer of hope amid the ashes of despair.
