In a distressing event, a fire swept through a segment of the well-known Nkpor Main market in the Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra state, close to the bustling city of Onitsha, causing substantial damage to merchandise valued at N300 million.
Reports indicate that the fire erupted during the early hours of Wednesday. Before the arrival of the state fire service, which was delayed, the flames had already consumed fewer than 30 shops. Fortunately, the traders, through their concerted efforts, managed to extinguish the fire.
The Chairman of the market, Paul Okafor, confirmed the regrettable incident during a press briefing, highlighting that the fire originated in a cold room shop and rapidly spread to adjacent shops.
Expressing concern, Okafor called on the state and local governments, as well as compassionate individuals and organizations, to assist the affected traders in swiftly recovering their businesses.
He emphasized the extent of the losses, stating that goods worth over N300 million were destroyed in the inferno. Okafor lamented the timing of the incident, noting the impact on the traders during the festive season, saying, “This is not good for this yuletide.”
