From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Several goods worth millions of naira were lost while two buildings were affected as a fire outbreak on Friday razed parts of the Onitsha Main Market at Ifejika Street/Sokoto Road in Anambra State, Nigeria.
The fire, which reportedly started at one of the buildings in the early morning hours, escalated into a nearby building.
The cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained at the time of this report.
However, residents, passers-by, and men of the fire service were on the ground as they tried to salvage some properties and goods from the building.
Chukwudi Chiketa, Head of the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service, confirmed the incident in a short message.
Chiketa urged residents and members of the public to remain calm as the firefighters battle to quench the fire.
“Anambra State Fire Service is currently on intervention at the scene of the fire outbreak at Ifejika Street, by Sokoto Road, Onitsha.
“The distress call came at 6.20 am today, and our firefighters deployed immediately.”
He further urged the general public to remain calm as the situation is under control.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has commiserated with the victims of the fire outbreak.
The CP stated that the incident could have been avoided if necessary precautionary measures were adhered to.
He, however, noted that no life was lost and said the Command appreciates the support of the fire service agency and good-spirited individuals in making sure that the fire was put off.