Recurring market fires that destroy traders’ goods, savings and business capital have prompted the President of the Ndigboamaka Progressive Market Association, Chinedu Ukatu, to call for stronger fire prevention measures, emergency relief and accountability in Lagos State.

Speaking at the Burning Point Seminar organised by CBI News, Ukatu proposed a five-point plan covering market infrastructure, emergency assistance, fire insurance, safety training and investigations into fire outbreaks.

He said market fires often leave traders struggling with debts, outstanding loans and household expenses, while employees lose their jobs and families face difficulties meeting basic needs.

Ukatu, whose association represents 58 markets across Lagos State, outlined the following measures:

He called for comprehensive fire-risk assessments, the replacement of faulty electrical installations, the provision of fire extinguishers and water points, accessible routes for emergency vehicles and regular safety inspections.

Ukatu proposed a Lagos State Market Fire Emergency Fund to provide financial assistance to verified victims.

He suggested that, under the proposed arrangement, aid should reach affected traders within 28 hours of a confirmed disaster, subject to an effective verification and disbursement process.

He urged the government, insurers and market associations to develop affordable group policies, introduce transparent claims procedures and ensure prompt settlement of legitimate claims.

Any compulsory scheme, he said, should feature reasonable premiums and safeguards for small businesses.

He also advocated regular training for designated traders and market safety teams to help them identify hazards, raise alarms, use fire extinguishers safely and facilitate evacuations while awaiting professional firefighters.

Ukatu called for investigations into every major market fire to establish its cause and identify any negligence or criminal conduct. He urged authorities to publish findings where legally permissible and hold responsible individuals or organisations accountable.

He also called for investigations into allegations of deliberate fires linked to sabotage or property disputes, stressing that such claims must be supported by credible evidence.

Complaints of unlawful payment demands or obstruction when traders attempt to retrieve salvageable goods from affected markets should also be investigated, he said.

On compensation, Ukatu advocated a transparent recovery framework with clear eligibility criteria. Where legal responsibility for a fire is established, affected traders should have a clear avenue to seek redress.

“We are the engine of the Lagos economy,” he said, emphasising traders’ contribution to employment and commercial activity.

Ukatu said effective prevention and recovery required cooperation between government agencies and market associations, supported by regular inspections, enforceable safety standards and clear emergency response plans.