A fire outbreak has destroyed parts of the popular Gombe timber market, known as Kasuwar Katako, along the Railway Station area of Gombe State.

The inferno, which occurred after traders had closed for the day, razed several shops and goods, leaving many traders counting heavy losses.

Following the incidents, the State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has ordered an immediate investigation and emergency relief measures.

In a statement issued by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, the governor described the incident as painful and distressing, noting that it had disrupted the livelihoods of many hardworking residents who depend on the market for survival.

Yahaya expressed sympathy with affected traders and business owners, assuring them of the state government’s support at what he described as a difficult moment.

“We assure them that the government stands firmly with them at this difficult moment,” the governor said.

He directed the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant agencies to immediately assess the extent of the damage, investigate the cause of the fire and provide urgent relief to victims to cushion the impact of their losses.

The governor commended the Gombe State Fire Service, personnel from Gombe State University, the Federal Fire Service, private tanker operators, security agencies and the Nigerian Red Cross Society for their swift intervention, which he said helped to prevent the fire from spreading further.

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While urging victims to remain calm, Yahaya reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening fire prevention and response mechanisms across the state, including plans to establish a fully equipped, state-of-the-art fire service office.

The statement also noted that the governor was briefed on an accident involving one of the firefighting trucks during the operation, expressing concern for those affected and praying for their quick recovery.

Source: Punch