By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Disaster was on Friday averted by the Anambra State Fire Service at Nkwo market, in Enugu-Ukwu, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State as traders were thrown into panic in the early hours following a fire outbreak that gutted part of the market.

A press statement issued by the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service said the emergency incident was reported at exactly 03:43 a.m. on November 28, 2025. Upon receiving the distress call, firefighters were immediately mobilized and deployed to the scene without delay.

The statement reads in part: "On arrival at the market square, firefighting personnel swiftly commenced suppression operations to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining shops and buildings.

"Preliminary findings by the Fire Service indicate that the inferno was triggered by electrical sparks from a faulty appliance in one of the shops in the market."

According to the Fire Service, the inferno, affected sections of the market mainly dealing in provisions and roofing materials, but due to the timely, coordinated and highly effective intervention of the firefighters, the destruction was successfully confined to just one shop, thereby preventing what could have escalated into a major market disaster

The Fire Service further confirmed that no life was lost and no casualty was recorded either, even as the firefighting operations were successfully concluded at about 04:46 a.m., barely an hour after the distress alert was received.

In his reaction, the Anambra State Fire Service strongly advised all shop owners and residents within the market environment to immediately carry out proper and professional inspection of their electrical installations, stressing that faulty wiring and appliances remain a major cause of fire outbreaks.

It also cautioned traders and residents to always switch off all electrical appliances when closing for the day, especially in commercial environments where flammable materials are stored.

It stated that despite the rising spate of fire incidents, the Anambra State Fire Service is reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and public property across the state.

While re-assuring residents of its continued readiness to respond promptly to emergencies at all times, the Fire Service unit also cautioned traders and residents to always switch off all electrical appliances when closing for the day, especially in commercial environments where flammable materials are stored.

It was however gathered that the latest outbreak adds to the growing list of destructive fire incidents recorded in different parts of Anambra State within the last one week, including recent fuel tanker accidents, and factory fires, among others, which have resulted in loss of life and many properties as well as heightened public anxiety.

Notwithstanding the rising spate of fire incidents, however, the Anambra State Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and public property across the state, further assuring residents of its continued readiness to respond promptly to emergencies at all times.

It also called on members of the public to remain vigilant, adhere strictly to safety precautions, and promptly report any emergency through the appropriate channels.