A raging inferno in the early hours of Monday completely razed the only market in Trademore Estate, Lugbe, Abuja, leaving residents in shock and traders facing significant losses.
The fire reportedly broke out around 3:30 a.m., shortly after power was restored by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company. The flames engulfed the market before emergency services could respond.
Suspected Cause: Electrical Fault or Other Factors?
While the exact cause remains unknown, eyewitnesses suspect electrical issues may have sparked the blaze. Joe, a resident of the estate, described the chaotic scene, saying, “By the time we noticed the fire around 4 a.m., it had already spread. We suspect it might be an electrical fault.”
Emergency Response: Late but Effective
Residents struggled to contact the Federal Fire Service and the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service, facing delays in response. However, help eventually arrived:
- The fire service team from Dunamis Church was the first to reach the scene around 5 a.m.
- Firefighters from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Sauka Station soon followed.
Together, they battled the blaze for nearly two hours, successfully extinguishing it and preventing further damage.
Extent of Damage: Yet to Be Assessed
As of the time of reporting, the value of goods lost and the full extent of the damage remain unclear. Traders and residents have begun assessing the ruins, grappling with the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.
Recurring Challenges in Trademore Estate
This tragic fire is the latest in a series of disasters affecting Trademore Estate. Just months earlier, the area faced severe flooding.
- June 2024 Flooding: Heavy rains submerged the estate along the Lugbe-Airport Expressway, reportedly sweeping away two individuals.
- June 2023 Flooding: Over 100 houses were submerged following torrential rainfall.
Trademore Estate residents continue to endure compounding challenges, raising concerns over infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the area.
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