Anambra Govt Blamed for Nnewi Timber Fire Disaster

Anambra Govt Blamed for Nnewi Timber Fire Disaster

The fire disaster that engulfed part of Nnewi timber market three days ago has been blamed on the negligence of Anambra State government.

Chief Godwin Ezeemo, a philanthropist and foremost entrepreneur, who was in the market to console traders who lost their wares and shops yesterday said basic amenities should be set in place to help the traders get a good business condition.

Ezeemo who took time to move round the market to see the extent of damage expressed happiness that no life was lost in the fire disaster.

“Fire post should be compulsory in every market. You cannot be collecting revenue from this market and not provide the amenities that will help them to conduct their businesses well.

“This is about the biggest timber market in the state, and it is even bigger than the one in Onitsha. And we know how much this market is yielding for the government, so they should be able to help them with infrastructure,” Ezeemo said.

The business mogul who is also the leader of the Progressive Peoples Alliance(PPA) who supported the traders financially, also called for support from other well to do individuals in the state, saying that it will provide succor for those who lost their wares in the fire.

The fire incident which started in the early hours of Thursday had burnt down 30 per cent of the market, leaving woods, sawing machines and other equipment burnt to ashes.

Market sources who spoke to our correspondents during a visit to the market said the cause of the fire was yet to be ascertained.

The chairman of the market, Chief Chukwunonso Nnetu who conducted Chief Ezeemo round the burnt market said the fire started at about 12am on Thursday, and was stopped from engulfing the entire market by well meaning individuals who joined the fire fighters to put it out.

Nnetu however thanked God that six traders who were affected by the fire incident, who were reported to have collapsed at the news of the fire and rushed to the hospital have all been discharged from the hospital.