The Federal Fire Service has linked a massive fire that destroyed several shops and goods worth millions of naira at Singer Market in Kano State on Saturday to a solar battery explosion.
The inferno reportedly razed Gidan Gilas, popularly known as “Gidan Mai,” a section of the market dominated by provision stores, leaving traders and residents counting heavy losses.
Confirming the cause, the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Command of the Federal Fire Service, Al‑Hassan Kantin, told Channels Television, “Fire outbreak is something that is not predictable. On the other hand, generally, it is preventable. That’s what we have been doing for years.
“This incident in Singer market is quite unfortunate and disturbing. I sympathise with the victims on behalf of the Federal Fire Service.
This incident is linked to an explosion of solar battery. The one that actually occurred two weeks ago was also linked to the same thing.
“What we should focus on now is this current trend of solar system because currently, the majority of the populace have resolved to the use of solar system.”
Eyewitnesses reported thick smoke and fierce flames sweeping across the crowded market as traders scrambled to salvage what they could before firefighters arrived.
Preliminary assessments suggest that more than 1,000 businesses were affected, and seven people were reported missing following the blaze.
The fire comes just two weeks after another solar battery-related fire hit the market, compounding losses and raising concerns about safety measures in Kano’s commercial centres.
Authorities have urged traders and residents to exercise caution when using solar systems to prevent future disasters.
In the aftermath, state and federal officials have expressed sympathy and pledged support.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has called on the Federal Government for modern firefighting equipment and enhanced emergency response capabilities, describing the situation as a significant setback for local commerce.
