A midnight fire outbreak has razed Fika Central Market, destroying goods worth millions of naira and leaving dozens of traders counting heavy losses in Fika Local Government Area, Yobe State.

Local authorities said the inferno consumed several shops, market stalls and slaughter slabs, wiping out the livelihoods of market women, butchers and other traders.

Confirming the incident on Tuesday in Damaturu, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr Mohammed Goje, said the fire not only destroyed property but also disrupted commercial activities across the council area.

According to him, personnel of the Fire Service and SEMA rescue teams were immediately deployed to the scene to contain the blaze and prevent further damage to lives and property at the Fika council headquarters. He, however, lamented that firefighting trucks and equipment available in the area were obsolete and inadequate to effectively combat the fire.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with thick plumes of black smoke engulfing the market and severely affecting visibility.

Dr Goje and officials of the Fika Local Government expressed sympathy to the affected traders. A state government representative, who requested anonymity, said the government stood in solidarity with the victims and would offer support within available resources.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the recurring fire outbreaks common during the harmattan season. Some state and local government officials called for an urgent assessment of the damage by SEMA, stressing the need to safeguard lives and property in markets, homes and other public places across the state.

They also urged the immediate provision of relief materials to alleviate the suffering of victims, while emphasising improved safety measures and preparedness to prevent future occurrences.

Dr Goje advised residents to remain vigilant and promptly report emergencies to SEMA and the state Fire Service Command.