A devastating fire outbreak has destroyed over 500 shops at Masaka Market in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, leaving traders and residents in despair.
The inferno, which began late Friday night around 10:30 p.m., wiped out valuables worth millions of naira, plunging the local business community into deep losses.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as heartbreaking. Joseph Jatau, a resident who witnessed the incident, recounted how the fire spread rapidly, catching traders off guard.
“We rushed to the market and found everything engulfed in flames,” Jatau said. “Community members called the fire service, but they arrived late, citing a lack of water.”
Usman Aliyu, a trader at the market, confirmed that over 500 shops, including food storage areas, were reduced to ashes. “We were still at the market when the fire started, but we don’t know the cause,” Aliyu said.
The destruction has sparked discussions about fire safety in markets across the state. Many traders are questioning the preparedness of local fire services and the lack of preventive measures in public markets.
Governor Abdullahi Sule visited the site on Saturday to assess the extent of the damage and promised support for the affected traders. “We will ensure that those impacted by this tragedy receive assistance to help them rebuild their livelihoods,” the governor assured.
This fire incident highlights the urgent need for improved fire safety protocols, especially during the harmattan season when the risk of such disasters is heightened.
