Fire has destroyed shops and goods worth millions of naira at Orba International Market in the Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The fire which started at midnight on Monday affected sections of the market where drinks, foams, gallons, provisions and other materials are being sold.
The market located at Orba community, the country home of former Governor Ifeanyichukwu Ugwuanyi, is the second largest market in the state.
A resident of the area, Chigbo Odegba, who spoke to journalists on Monday morning, said the fire started around midnight, destroying several shops and goods worth millions of naira.
Another resident, Chinyere Eze, said, “It (fire) started around midnight. It is a pity because the shop owners were not around. All the goods in the affected shops were destroyed. It is a sad New Year for us.”
The State Chief Fire Officer, Mr Daniel Ohaa, confirmed the fire incident.
Ohaa said, “It was a midnight fire incident. We got the information, and our office in Udenu responded swiftly, and stopped the fire from destroying more property. Much was destroyed, and much saved.
“It’s fortunate that we have an office close to Orba. It was significant for the rescue operations. We thank residents who contacted us, and I commend our operatives who responded swiftly.”
