A section of the Kaura Modern Market in the Kaura District of Abuja was engulfed in flames on Friday night, resulting in the destruction of about 40 shops. The fire, which began around 11:00 pm, caused significant losses, including foodstuffs, appliances, and household items.
According to a report from the Acting Director of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service, Amiola Adebayo, the fire was triggered by an electrical spark from a power change-over unit in one of the shops, which was further fueled by a generator stored inside the same shop. The blaze was reported at 11:11 pm and was finally extinguished at 1:59 am by the combined efforts of the FCT Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service.
The report detailed the extent of the damage: “Property involved; Open Market block that comprises 39 shops of foodstuffs. Items lost: foodstuffs, generators, refrigerators, fruits, umbrellas, electrical appliances, household items, and some parts of the roof.”
Adebayo did not mention any casualties or injuries resulting from the incident. However, he responded to allegations that the fire service arrived late at the scene, explaining that network issues made it difficult for the service to be contacted promptly. He noted that once the call was received, the Games Village fire unit arrived within 10-12 minutes, and the Asokoro unit joined shortly thereafter.
Adebayo acknowledged that while the response time might have seemed long to those at the scene, the fire service acted as quickly as possible under the circumstances.
