A raging fire broke out early Friday morning at Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State, destroying sections of one of Nigeria’s largest commercial hubs. The inferno reportedly started around 6:20 a.m. in a market building on Ifejika Street near Sokoto Road before spreading to an adjacent structure.
Emergency responders, including firefighters and local residents, rushed to the scene in an attempt to salvage goods and contain the blaze. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown as authorities continue investigations.
Chukwudi Chiketa, Head of Media and Publicity for the Anambra State Fire Service, confirmed the incident and assured the public that efforts were underway to extinguish the flames. He urged traders and residents to remain calm as firefighters worked to prevent further destruction.
This incident follows another fire outbreak in Onitsha just days ago, where a two-story commercial building near Ochanja Main Market was gutted by flames. Authorities have not yet determined whether there is a connection between the two events.
