THE Nkwo Daily Market, Ogidi was on February 4, engulfed by an inferno that razed not less than eight lockup shops.

The fire, which started in the morning from a tanker conveying diesel, lost control in an attempt to navigate the Ugwu Nwasike Roundabout at Ogidi.

It was learnt from onlookers that the tanker collided with a Tipper packed by the roadside.

According to them, early arrival of men of the Anambra State Fire Service from Okpoko, Ogidi Building Material International Market and Government House, Awka, prevented the fire from spreading to other parts of the market.

“The tanker, which was coming from Onitsha and bound for Awka expressway toward Ugwu Nwasike developed fault and was unable to climb the hill and rolled back.

“As it rolled, it collided with the Tipper, whose leaking fuel ignited the fire,” an eyewitness said.

Confirming the incident, Mark Ijarafu, the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Ogidi Police Station, who was seen controlling traffic at the scene, described it as “unfortunate.’’

He said that there was no casualty, but cautioned tanker drivers to always put their vehicles in order before putting them on the road.

Some of the traders and sympathisers, who gathered at the scene, commended prompt intervention of fire servicemen.

They noted that their prompt response to the distress calls placed to them, saved the entire market from being razed.

– Feb. 5, 2018 @ 18:43 GMT |