A late-night fire outbreak has destroyed sections of the popular Gombe timber market, Kasuwar Katako, prompting the state government to order an immediate investigation and emergency support for affected traders.
The inferno, which broke out on Monday night after trading hours at the market located along the Railway Station area of Gombe metropolis, gutted several shops and goods, leaving traders with significant losses.
Reacting to the incident, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the fire as “painful and distressing,” noting that the market is a major source of livelihood for many residents.
“This unfortunate incident has disrupted the means of survival of many hardworking citizens. We assure them that the government stands firmly with them at this difficult moment,” the governor said.
In a statement issued by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, the governor expressed sympathy with traders and business owners affected by the fire.
Governor Yahaya directed the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency, alongside other relevant agencies, to urgently assess the level of damage, determine the cause of the fire, and provide immediate relief to cushion the impact on victims.
He also commended the swift response of the Gombe State Fire Service, the Federal Fire Service, personnel from Gombe State University, private tanker operators, security agencies, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society, noting that their intervention helped prevent the fire from spreading further.
While urging affected traders to remain calm, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving fire prevention and emergency response across the state, including plans to establish a modern, fully equipped fire service facility.
The statement added that the governor was briefed on an accident involving one of the firefighting trucks during the operation, expressing concern for those affected and offering prayers for their speedy recovery.
