A raging fire has destroyed a major plaza in Onitsha Main Market, Anambra State, causing panic among traders and residents.
According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the inferno, which started in the early hours of the morning, has continued to spread, destroying shops and valuable goods.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire broke out suddenly, and within minutes, thick smoke and flames were visible across the market.
Traders and shop owners scrambled to salvage their goods, but many were unable to do so due to the intensity of the fire.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but speculations range from electrical faults to possible human negligence.
Firefighters arrived at the scene and have been battling to contain the blaze, but efforts have been hampered by access challenges.
Many shop owners expressed frustration, lamenting the loss of their goods, which they estimated to be worth millions of naira.
“We don’t know how this fire started, but we have lost everything. This is our only means of livelihood,” a trader said.
Security operatives were also deployed to the scene to prevent looting and ensure order as the situation remained tense.
Officials from the Anambra State Fire Service have assured the public that an investigation will be conducted to determine the cause.
Efforts to extinguish the fire continued into the afternoon, with emergency responders working tirelessly to bring it under control.
Many traders appealed to the government for urgent assistance, as they face enormous financial losses due to the disaster.
The Onitsha Main Market, one of the largest commercial hubs in West Africa, has witnessed multiple fire outbreaks in recent years.
Market leaders and state officials have called for improved safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
As of press time, no casualties had been reported, but the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.