Traders Count Losses as Fire Ravages Kaura Market, Abuja

A devastating fire swept through the bustling Kaura Market in Abuja’s Kaura District on Friday night, leaving a trail of destruction and despair in its wake. The inferno, which began around 11 pm, consumed approximately 40 shops, causing significant losses for traders.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as “chaotic” as traders watched helplessly as their livelihoods went up in flames. “I lost everything,” said one trader, who wished to remain anonymous. “My shop, my goods, everything. I don’t know how I’ll recover from this.”

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The cause of the fire remains unknown, and officials from the FCT Fire Service and Emergency Management Department were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting. However, traders and eyewitnesses expressed frustration over the delayed response of the fire service, which they claim allowed the fire to spread and worsen the damage.

“The fire service took too long to arrive,” said another trader. “If they had come sooner, maybe we could have saved some of our goods.”

The Kaura Market, located opposite the Prince and Princess Estate, is a hub of commercial activity and a vital source of income for many traders. The fire has dealt a severe blow to their livelihoods, and many are left wondering how they will recover.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are assessing the extent of the damage. Further details are expected in the coming days.

In the meantime, traders are left to pick up the pieces and count their losses. “This is a disaster,” said one trader. “We need help to rebuild and recover.”