The Gusau Vegetable Market in Zamfara State, Nigeria, experienced a fire outbreak that destroyed nearly half of its premises. According to a market vendor, Alhaji Mu'azu, the incident occurred around 10 pm and is suspected to have been caused by an electric surge. Despite notifying the state firefighters, there was a delay in their response. Concurrently, another fire incident affected a provision store in Unguwar Gwaza, Gusau.
Bello Sani, Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Fire Service, stated that their personnel responded promptly by dispatching fire trucks. However, the market's construction with highly inflammable materials, such as wood and sticks, hindered effective control. "You see how the shanties were constructed with highly inflammable woods and sticks that when they catch fire, within a short time, will destroy everything," Sani explained.
Addressing allegations of negligence due to the fire station's proximity (less than 300 meters) to the market, Sani mentioned, "The fire truck belonging to the office is under total overhaul sponsored by the chairman, Gusau Local Government, and is about to be completed." He noted that new vehicles are expected from the state government in two weeks to enhance full operations.
Sani also announced plans for forceful evacuations of shanties in front of Zamfara State Radio, vegetable markets, and other locations. This effort will include hotels lacking proper exits and fire-fighting first aid measures.
Source: The Nation