Benue: Midnight fire razes Katsina-Ala main market

A midnight fire broke out at the Katsina-Ala Main Market in Benue State, destroying several shops and goods worth millions of naira.

The inferno, which reportedly started around 12 a.m., raged for hours before firefighters and local residents managed to bring it under control.

Eyewitnesses said the fire began in one section of the market and quickly spread to other parts, fueled by the tightly packed stalls and flammable materials stored inside.

Panic spread among traders and residents as thick smoke and flames lit up the night sky.

Despite the swift response from firefighters, a large portion of the market was reduced to ashes. Many traders who rushed to the scene could do little but watch helplessly as their livelihoods went up in flames.

Authorities have since cordoned off the affected area, while an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.

Preliminary reports suggest it may have been triggered by an electrical fault, though officials say they are considering all possible causes.

The Katsina-Ala Local Government Chairman has expressed sympathy for affected traders and assured that efforts are underway to assess the level of damage and provide relief to victims.

Benue: Midnight fire razes Katsina-Ala main market