An early morning fire on Thursday destroyed several shops in a three-storey commercial building at Nodu Market, behind Juhel Pharmaceutical Company, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The fire, which started in the early hours of the day, destroyed goods worth millions of naira before it was contained by the Anambra State Fire Service. No life was lost.
Eyewitnesses said the blaze spread quickly and burned for several minutes before firefighters arrived and stopped it from reaching nearby buildings. Many shop owners were seen on Friday picking through the remains of their goods.
The cause of the incident has not been confirmed, but early reports suggest it may have started after an occupant fell asleep while cooking.
Confirming the incident, the Head of Media and Publicity of the Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, said firefighters and two trucks were deployed immediately after the distress call.
He said “A three-storey building at Nodu Okpuno, opposite Nodu Market, was engulfed by fire in the early hours of Thursday. The fire reportedly began in one of the upper flats.”
He added “Two people trapped inside the burning flat were rescued and brought out safely. Thanks to the swift response, the fire was fully contained that same morning.”
The fire service noted that the operation faced major challenges, including a narrow access road that made it hard for fire trucks to enter, and a tiny internal staircase that slowed the movement of firefighters and their equipment.
Chiketa thanked residents who helped the firefighters during the operation, saying their support made a big difference.
The agency again warned the public to keep access roads clear, avoid blocked corridors, and make sure buildings have proper escape routes. It also advised residents not to leave cooking or electrical appliances unattended.
In March, a similar fire at Ziks Avenue, Fegge, Onitsha, destroyed nine shops after a suspected power surge.
