The Sokoto State Government has expressed condolences and pledged assistance to the victims of a recent fire outbreak at the ‘Karar-‘Yan-Nika’ area of the Kara Market in Sokoto.
The devastating fire, which affected about 50 shops, destroyed 132 grinding machines and significant quantities of food items, including rice, millet, and beans, worth millions of naira.
The State Deputy Governor, Idris Mohammed Gobir, who visited the scene of the incident to sympathize with the victims announced that the government would set up a committee to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fire.
The committee, according to the Deputy Governor, will also be tasked with identifying measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
“The harmattan season, with its dry conditions, often increases the risk of fire outbreaks. It is important for everyone to take the necessary precautions,” Gobir said. He assured the victims that the government would provide support once the committee submits its report.
The fire, which caused extensive damage to local businesses, had a significant impact on both indigenous and non-indigenous traders in the area.
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Speaking in his remarks, Malam Yakubu Bello, the Chairman of the Grinders Association in the market, confirmed that the destruction was substantial, especially as the fire also gutted many grinding machines, vital to the market’s operations.
Nuhu, the Chairman of the Youth Traders Association, thanked the Deputy Governor for the visit, recognising it as a clear indication of the government’s concern for the well-being of its people.
He appealed to the government for support, noting that young traders represent a large portion of those affected by the disaster.
Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) was also quick to respond to the incident. Special Adviser, Hon. Liman Bodinga, commended the state government for its swift action, calling the Deputy Governor’s visit both timely and commendable.
During the Deputy Governor’s visit to the site, SEMA Special Adviser; Hon. Aminu Liman Bodinga was accompanied by the Sokoto SEMA Special Adviser, Bashir Muhammad.
The government’s ongoing efforts highlight a commitment to both immediate relief and long-term solutions to mitigate future disasters in the region.
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