A devastating fire outbreak ravaged the Ihiokwu Main Market, in Obarike Ito, Obi Local Government Area of Benue State in the early hours of Sunday, 2nd of February 2025, starting around 12 AM. The blaze, which allegedly originated from a single shop, rapidly spread, causing significant damages to multiple stalls and goods within the market.
As at the time of this report, the cause of the fire outbreak is still unknown, with local authorities still investigating the incident. The fire has left numerous traders in despair as their livelihoods were consumed by the flames, with goods worth millions of naira destroyed.
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Community Reaction
The local community of Obi LGA is in a state of shock and urgency, with residents and traders alike calling for immediate government intervention. The need for relief efforts, as well as preventive measures to avoid future fires, has been emphasized.
According to Chief Odoko Andrew, the district head of Adiko council ward “We rushed out at about 12:00 AM to see people devastated. With goods over two-hundred and something million Naira razed down with fire”
Speaking further, He said that the government should come to the aid of the victims, who he describes as “lay-men” who struggled through tight and tin to erect those shops for themselves.
There’s a strong demand for improved fire safety protocols, including better access to fire services, regular inspections, and perhaps a redesign of the market to enhance safety.
Bensema Reponse
Mr. Terma Anger, the Information officer, Benue State Emergency Management Agency, told this reporter via a phone call that the incident has not been reported to the agency.
Government Response:
In a phone interview with Hon. Silas Ode Ahonye, the Executive Chairman of Obi Local Government said that the incident is true.
“It is a sad incident that occurred at the early hour of Sunday, at about 12:00 AM. I was there myself, and it is painful that I can only share in the pains of the victims and the entire Obi Local government at this trying time.
I have ordered that an investigation be carried out on the market to point out the reason for the outbreak, so the mistake is not repeated, or that the issue be fixed to avoid future occurrence.
