Shops and goods worth millions of naira were destroyed in a fire that broke out late Tuesday night at Iweka Road, near the Ochanja market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The fire, which began around 8:30 PM, quickly engulfed several shops, reducing both goods and property to ashes.
Although the exact cause of the blaze remains unclear, sources indicate that the flames burned for several minutes before firefighters arrived, with many traders already having left for the night.
On Wednesday, the Anambra State Fire Service confirmed the incident.
The state’s fire chief, Chukwudi Chiketa, stated that a distress call was received at 9:40 PM on Tuesday, prompting an immediate response.
A team of firemen, along with firefighting equipment, was dispatched to the scene to battle the inferno.
Chiketa detailed the efforts, saying, “Anambra State Fire Service received a distress call about a fire outbreak at Iweka Road, close to Ochanja Market, Onitsha, at 9:40 PM on Tuesday, March 25.
A crew of firemen and equipment were immediately deployed to the scene.
They worked tirelessly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further.”
The fire affected four shops, which housed items such as furniture materials, including leather and foam.
Thanks to the quick response, many other shops in the two-story building were spared.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation,” Chiketa added.
“Our crew remained at the scene until 3:05 AM on Wednesday, March 26, ensuring the fire was fully contained,” he continued.
The incident has left traders in the area grappling with significant losses, as the destruction of goods and property continues to be assessed.
