A midnight inferno that engulfed, Ahịa Mgbede, located opposite the New Motor Spare Parts Market in Nnewi has left several shops in ruins and business owners in despair.
It was learnt that goods worth millions of naira were destroyed in the incident.
The fire, which started in the early hours of January 14, 2025, reduced numerous shops to ashes, with victims and sympathizers struggling to salvage properties before firefighters arrived.
One of the victims, identified as Uche, described the devastating scene, saying: “We arrived this morning to find our shops reduced to rubble. The loss is immeasurable and has sent shockwaves through the entire business community.”
He added that the cause of the fire remains unknown but disclosed that many shop owners were heavily impacted.
Uche also recounted how a female victim, overwhelmed by heartbreak, attempted self-harm but was restrained and comforted by those nearby.
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The Anambra State Fire Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the Media and Publicity Unit, led by Fire Chief Chukwudi Chiketa.
The statement revealed that the distress call was received at 2:15 a.m, prompting immediate deployment of firefighters and equipment from the Nnewi and Ogidi fire stations.
“The team worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, though it reignited later in the morning. No casualties have been recorded as of now, but efforts are ongoing to completely extinguish the fire,” the statement read.
Fire Chief Chiketa urged the public to adopt fire safety measures and promptly report fire outbreaks to the fire service.
“Fire is dangerous but preventable. Always be conscious of fire safety and call the fire service immediately during incidents for timely intervention,” he advised.
The tragic event has left business owners counting their losses and the community rallying to support those affected.
