Tragedy struck the bustling Kara timber market in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, as a massive fire engulfed the popular trading hub in the early hours of Sunday, reducing goods and structures worth millions of naira to ashes.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as thick smoke and flames rapidly spread through the market before emergency responders could contain the blaze.
“We just saw smoke everywhere, and before we knew it, the flames had engulfed most of the shops,” said Musa Bello, a timber trader who lost his goods in the incident.
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown at the time of filing this report. However, many traders are counting their losses and appealing for support from both the government and well-meaning individuals.
Reacting to the incident, the Kebbi State Government conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the victims. In a statement released by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Abuzaid Yari, the government described the fire as “an unfortunate incident.”
“We sympathize deeply with all those affected and pray that Almighty Allah replenishes their losses,” Yari said.
He also lauded the Kebbi State Fire Service for their timely intervention, which he noted helped to curtail what could have been an even more devastating disaster.
“We appreciate the swift action of the fire service, whose efforts prevented further damage,” he added.
Yari reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens, stressing that measures would be taken to enhance market safety and prevent future occurrences.
The fire has left many traders in distress as they struggle to pick up the pieces of their livelihoods. Local authorities are expected to begin an assessment of the damage and provide relief support in the coming days.
