A devastating fire on Saturday morning gutted the Kara Grains Market in Sokoto, destroying grains and properties valued at over N50 million.
The blaze, which ravaged more than 50 grinding shops, also spread to nearby houses, leaving residents and business owners in financial distress.
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, but the destruction was extensive, wiping out food items such as rice, millet, beans, and other goods stored for trade.
One of the victims, Glory Matthew Abba, revealed that he lost his grinding engine worth N1.8 million. Another victim, Aliyu Achida, lamented the loss of his house and food crops, amounting to approximately N3 million.
Emergency responders from the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted a joint assessment of the affected area.
Mustapha Umar, SEMA’s Director of Relief, stated, “Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, and authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire hazards around them.”
Officials assured the victims of their commitment to providing necessary support as recovery efforts begin.
