Fire guts Kano market, destroys offices, shops
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A fire destroyed offices and shops in Kano State, Nigeria, after starting in a salvage yard known as Takumbo Market.
- The Kano State Fire Service responded to the blaze late Thursday night and contained it, attributing the cause to an electrical spark.
- Fire officials urged residents and business owners to adhere to safety measures to prevent future fire outbreaks.
A devastating fire tore through properties along Murtala Mohammed Way in Kano State's Fagge Local Government Area on Thursday night, consuming offices and shops. The inferno, which originated in a salvage yard commonly known as Takumbo Market, spread to adjacent structures near First City Monument Bank.
The Kano State Fire Service received an emergency call around 10:54 p.m. and immediately dispatched firefighters from various stations. Upon arrival, emergency crews found a one-story building and a commercial area, approximately 300 by 200 feet, engulfed in flames. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire began in the salvage yard, destroying a significant amount of goods before engulfing nearby buildings.
The fire severely impacted the Kanawa Building, destroying two offices, two parlors, two toilets, and a kitchen on the upper floor. Additionally, two stores on the ground floor of TUSRAYS Nigeria Limited sustained damage. The Fire Service has identified an electrical spark as the likely cause of the incident.
Members of the public should take all necessary precautions to prevent fire outbreaks. Electrical installations should be properly maintained and safety measures strictly observed.
Director of the Kano State Fire Service, Alhaji Sani Anas, has issued a strong appeal to the public and business owners to prioritize fire safety. He emphasized the importance of proper maintenance for electrical installations and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar disasters. Anas also urged residents to report any fire incidents promptly to the nearest fire station, enabling a faster response to minimize damage and protect lives and property.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported as a result of the fire outbreak at the time of this report. The incident highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and preventative measures against fire hazards in the region.
We appeal to the public to immediately alert the Fire Service whenever there is a fire outbreak. Early reporting helps to minimise damage and save lives and property.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.