Properties worth Millions of naira have been destroyed after a massive fire broke out at the popular Karu Market on the outskirts of Abuja city center on thursday evening.
The fire started around 8pm and spread rapidly across the market, according to eyewitnesses.
Our correspondent reports that the fire began in the informal sector, where highly flammable materials are commonly found. After hours of frantic efforts by firefighters, the fire was eventually put out completely at midnight.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ben Igweh, dispatched operatives to the scene to prevent looting by hoodlums as traders attempted to salvage what’s left of their wares. The police continue to maintain surveillance in the market despite the fire being contained.
AIT gathered that the cause of the fire is still under investigation by the emergency response team.
Unfortunately, fire outbreaks in Abuja markets are not new, with a yearly pattern emerging over the last five years.
In the last five years, over six outbreaks have been recorded, including:
- Karmo Market fire (2021 and 2022)
- Kugbo Market fire (2020 and 2021)
- Ebeano Supermarket fire (2021)
- Next Cash and Carry Supermarket fire (2021)
The investigation into the cause of the Karu Market fire is ongoing.”
Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie
