The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has officially confirmed that an explosion at the Talata Mafara Market in Zamfara State on Tuesday resulted in four fatalities and left 50 people injured. The agency described the incident as a tragic fire outbreak that not only claimed lives but also destroyed several businesses and properties within the market.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar, revealed that the agency swiftly mobilized a rescue team from its Sokoto Operations Office to provide emergency response and assess the scale of the damage.
“Our team arrived at the scene to assess the situation and support emergency response efforts. Preliminary findings indicate that the explosion, caused by fire, destroyed several shops and stalls in the market,” Umar stated.
She assured the public that the agency is committed to coordinating with other emergency response units to manage the aftermath and provide the necessary assistance to affected victims and their families.
According to eyewitnesses, the explosion was allegedly triggered by a cigarette butt that was carelessly discarded. The cigarette reportedly landed near highly combustible materials, which quickly ignited and led to a massive fire.
Local traders and residents described the incident as chaotic, with many struggling to escape as the fire rapidly spread through the market. Some shop owners and customers sustained serious injuries in their attempt to flee.
“The fire started suddenly, and before we knew it, there was a loud explosion. People were running for their lives, and many traders lost everything they had in their shops,” a trader recounted.
Out of the 50 injured victims, 46 were transferred to Usman Dan Fodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. According to NEMA’s report, they are currently receiving treatment across various medical departments, including the orthopedic unit, surgery ward, intensive care burn unit, and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) department.
Medical personnel at the hospital confirmed that some of the victims suffered severe burns and fractures, while others had respiratory complications due to smoke inhalation. Authorities are making efforts to provide medical care and psychological support to those affected.
The Zamfara State government has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that investigations will be conducted to prevent future occurrences.
Additionally, NEMA has pledged to work closely with the Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA), the police, and other relevant authorities to provide support and relief materials to the victims and their families.
“NEMA is working closely with the Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant authorities to provide necessary support to the victims and their families,” Umar added.
Security operatives have since cordoned off the affected area to prevent looting and further incidents, while fire service officials continue to monitor the site for any potential hazards.
Many traders in the Talata Mafara Market have been left devastated by the fire, with some losing all their goods and lifetime savings. They are now appealing to the government and well-meaning Nigerians for assistance in rebuilding their businesses.
“We have lost everything. Our shops, goods, and even money were all destroyed in the fire. We need urgent help to start over again,” one affected trader lamented.
As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, authorities have advised the public to be more cautious in handling flammable materials, especially in crowded commercial areas.