Goods worth over ₦200 million were destroyed in a fire at Rumuomasi Morning Market, Rivers State. Traders plead for government support following the devastating blaze

[dropcap]R[/dropcap]umuomasi market fire on Tuesday night gutted goods and properties worth hundreds of millions of Naira at the popular Rumuomasi Morning Market in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

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The blaze, which started between 7:30pm and 8pm following a reported spark after power was restored, engulfed several stalls and shops before firefighters managed to extinguish it.

Federal and state fire services, assisted by private company brigades, battled the flames amid access challenges.

Our correspondent, who visited the market, witnessed emotional scenes as distraught traders watched helplessly while their life investments went up in smoke. Many were seen weeping openly.

One of the worst-hit victims, Mr Anthony Chikere, a former chairman of the market and a dealer in wholesale fabrics, estimated his losses at over ₦180 million.

“We closed and left the market minutes before the fire started. Before we got back, everything was gone,” he lamented.

“We had three unopened bales of materials, all burnt. We are calling on the government to assist us because things are very tough.”

Another affected trader, Nkiru Olisemeka, a widow and mother of four university students, described her anguish upon arriving at the scene.

“I trade in foodstuffs rice, beans, oil. Everything is gone. I had ₦500,000 in cash in the shop, which was also burnt. I don’t know how I will continue to pay my children’s school fees,” she said tearfully.

The fire, which raged for hours, drew emergency response teams and police officers, who kept vigil to deter looters and ensure public safety.

Spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident. “Investigation is ongoing to ascertain what really happened.