Fire Men, Others Contain Onitsha Market Inferno, Says Caretaker Chairman

By Chuks Eke

Onitsha, Anambra State – A fire that broke out Wednesday night at Bridge Head Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, has been extinguished, thanks to the swift intervention of local authorities and firefighters, according to the market’s caretaker chairman.

Hon. Chinedu Ezekwike, popularly known as Akwaeke of Umuchu, expressed gratitude for the timely response, specifically commending the newly elected Chairman of Onitsha South Local Government, Hon. Emeka Orji.

The fire, which started around 9 pm, ravaged the furniture section of the market, destroying approximately 18 shops and millions of naira worth of goods.

“I was dumbfounded when I received the call about the inferno,” Ezekwike told newsmen in Onitsha.

He explained that he and Hon. Orji personally contacted firefighters from Okpoko and Asaba, who successfully contained the blaze before it could spread further.

“We thank God we struggled with the help of fire servicemen from Okpoko and Asaba and quenched it,” he said.

“I am grateful to Onitsha South local government Chairman Hon. Emeka Orji, traders and people who live nearby the Market for their immense assistance. This has showed that Ndigbo still loves themselves.”

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, Ezekwike used the opportunity to caution traders against fire hazards, especially with the harmattan season approaching.

He urged shop owners to be vigilant, switch off electrical appliances and machines after closing, and ensure all lights are turned off before leaving their shops.

“This is a harmattan period, anything can ignite fire,” he warned. “We pray that we will not experience this type of incident again.”