Fire guts multimillion naira shops in Onitsha market

A significant fire incident occurred overnight, resulting in the destruction of shops and merchandise valued in the millions of naira along the well-known Iweka Road, near Ochanja Market in Onitsha, Anambra State.

Reports indicate that the fire ignited around 8:30 PM on Tuesday, consuming numerous shops and reducing goods and property to ashes.

While the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, it is reported that the flames persisted for several minutes before firefighters arrived, as many traders had already left for the day.

On Wednesday, the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service, under the leadership of Fire Chief Chukwudi Chiketa, confirmed the incident. They received an emergency call at approximately 9:40 PM and promptly dispatched a team of firefighters along with necessary equipment to the location.

Chiketa stated, “The Anambra State Fire Service received a distress call at around 9:40 PM on Tuesday, March 25, regarding a significant fire outbreak at the popular Iweka Road, adjacent to Ochanja Market in Onitsha.

“Immediately, our team of firefighters and firefighting apparatus were sent to the scene. They worked diligently to control the situation and prevent the fire from spreading further.

“The incident impacted four shops, while many others were safeguarded within a two-story building. The affected shops housed various furniture materials, including leather and foam.

“The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. The firefighting team concluded their operations and left the scene at 3:05 AM on Wednesday, March 26.”