Gombe Governor orders probe and relief after a devastating fire destroyed shops at Kasuwar Katako timber market in the state capital

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya on Monday ordered an immediate investigation and emergency relief measures after a devastating fire outbreak destroyed sections of the popular Kasuwar Katako timber market near the Railway Station area of the state capital.

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The blaze, which broke out late Monday night after traders had closed for business, razed multiple shops and consumed goods worth millions of naira, leaving scores of traders facing severe losses.

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

Governor Yahaya expressed sympathy with affected traders and business owners, assuring them of the state government’s full support during what he described as a difficult and trying period.

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

As part of the response, the governor directed the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency, alongside other relevant authorities, to immediately assess the extent of the damage, determine the cause of the fire and provide urgent relief materials to cushion the impact on victims.

He also commended the swift and coordinated response of 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, describing their intervention as crucial in preventing the fire from spreading to nearby properties.

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

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The statement added that the governor had been briefed on an accident involving one of the firefighting trucks during the operation. He expressed concern for those injured and prayed for their speedy recovery.