By Nwabueze Okonkwo

ONITSHA – The Caretaker Chairman of Bridgehead Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, Hon. Chinedu Ezekwike, has praised the timely intervention of the newly elected Chairman of Onitsha South Local Government, Hon. Emeka Orji, in addressing the recent fire that ravaged the furniture section of the market.

Speaking to newsmen in Onitsha, Hon. Ezekwike, popularly known as Akwaeke of Umuchu, expressed his shock upon receiving news of the fire and thanked Hon. Orji and local residents for their swift response.

Ezekwike explained that the fire, which broke out at around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, was contained with the help of fire services from Okpoko and Asaba, both of which were contacted by himself and Hon. Orji.

“The fire started around 9 p.m. Wednesday night. With the help of fire servicemen from Okpoko and Asaba, we were able to contain it. I was there with the Onitsha South local government Chairman, and we made several calls to contact the firefighters. Thankfully, they arrived in time to extinguish the fire. I am grateful to the Chairman, traders, and residents nearby for their invaluable assistance. This is a clear demonstration that Ndigbo still care for one another,” said Hon. Ezekwike.

The fire affected only the furniture section of the market, destroying approximately 18 shops and goods worth millions of naira. The cause of the inferno is yet to be determined.

Hon. Ezekwike used the opportunity to remind traders and market participants to exercise caution as the harmattan season approaches, stressing the importance of safety when handling flammable materials.

“I urge traders, especially those using machines or equipment that can easily catch fire, to be cautious and ensure they turn off machines after their business activities. During harmattan, anything can spark a fire. For those with lights in their shops, always switch off appliances before closing. We pray we do not experience such incidents again,” Ezekwike urged.