Victor Ezeja
A fire outbreak at Nnewi spare parts market popularly called “Ahia Mgbede” in Anambra State, has destroyed buildings and goods worth millions of naira.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire broke out at midnight and raged for several minutes before fire service officers arrived. Videos shared on social media showed the raging fire reducing shops with goods to ashes.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn one of the videos, the voice of a trader was heard lamenting “fire burning Ahia Mgbede this early morning.”
Voices of other traders who rushed to the scene early Tuesday morning were heard wailing over the ruin. Some were heard saying: “we don’t have a functional fire service in Anambra State.”
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A lady who was affected by the fire accident attempted suicide upon arriving the scene but was prevented from doing so by a crowd of sympathisers.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Fire Service has confirmed the incident. According to a statement released by its head of Media and Publicity Unit, Chukwudi Chiketa, the state fire service received a distress call about the incident at 2 am on Tuesday, 14 January 2025 and swiftly deployed officers and equipment to the scene to stop the fire.
“Our Firemen fought tirelessly to contain the fire, but it reignited later this morning. Efforts are ongoing to completely extinguish the fire,” part of the statement read.
The fire chief who confirmed that no casualties had been recorded as of the time of issuing the statement, said the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
He encouraged members of the public to go about their normal businesses, assuring that the situation is “progressively under control by the Anambra State Fire Service.”
He advised the public to be conscious of fire and avoid anything that can cause fire outbreaks.
He also urged members of the public to always remember to call the fire service on time anytime there is a fire outbreak for immediate intervention to prevent casualties and loss of properties.
“Always be conscious of fire and avoid actions that could trigger outbreaks. Fire is dangerous but preventable. When incidents occur, call the Fire Service immediately to enable timely intervention,” the statement added.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
