By Cecilia Ogezi
The National President of the Almushahid Initiative For Transparency and Accountability (AITA), Amb. Aminu Majidadi has expressed deep concern over the devastating fire incident that razed 50 shops in Bayan Tasha Market, Yobe State in the early hours of today. Majidadi emphasized the importance of swift and comprehensive actions to prevent such recurrent disasters, particularly in critical markets that are central to the livelihood of many citizens.
“The destruction of 50 shops in the Bayan Tasha market, a year after a similar catastrophe, calls for a renewed commitment to improving fire safety measures across the state. While we commend the prompt response of the federal and state fire services, we must ensure that such incidents do not keep repeating,” Majidadi stated. “It is crucial that authorities not only respond effectively in the aftermath but also work on long-term solutions to safeguard markets and businesses from fire hazards.”
Amb. Majidadi reiterated that incidents like these highlight the urgency for proactive measures, including the installation of more reliable fire prevention infrastructure, public awareness campaigns on fire safety, and the development of emergency protocols that could reduce the impact of such disasters. He also called for the strengthening of market management systems to ensure that such calamities do not leave business owners vulnerable.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, Majidadi called on all relevant authorities, including local governments, the federal government, and the private sector, to collaborate in enhancing safety standards and supporting the victims of the fire, whose businesses have suffered irreparable losses.
Capital Watch Media gathered that the fire destroyed approximately 50 shops at the Bayan Tasha market in Damaturu, Yobe State, in the early hours of Tuesday, marking a tragic repetition of events that occurred exactly one year ago. The fire, which started around 2:00 am, ignited when power was restored to the area while shop owners had already closed for the night.
Despite the considerable material losses, there were no reported fatalities. The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is currently assessing the damage and compiling a list of affected properties. The fire, which had the potential for even greater devastation, was contained thanks to the coordinated efforts of emergency responders.
This latest fire adds to the ongoing concerns about market safety in Nigeria, underscored by another recent fire in Lugbe, Abuja, which destroyed a significant part of the only market in Trademore Estate. In that instance, the fire reportedly broke out shortly after electricity was restored in the area at 3:30 am on Monday.
