Enugu motor spare parts midnight inferno claims fire service personnel, millions of Naira

A staff of Enugu State Fire Service was confirmed dead early Wednesday morning as he battled, alongside his colleagues, to quench a raging inferno at the Enugu State Motor Spare Parts Market.

The market is located at the Coal Camp area, within the Enugu metropolis.

NEWSMEN learnt that the fire started from one of the spare parts shops, before spreading to a fast food joint.

A source hinted that a gas cylinder in the fast food joint exploded and made the fire extend to over 40 shops.

The President of the Spare Parts Market Association, Mr Mike Nome confirmed that millions of Naira was lost to the fire incident.

He disclosed that, “it started from one of the shops; when the security men noticed it, they struggled to open the shop but it was difficult because of burglary proof.

“As they were still struggling with it, the fire spread to the fast food joint and a gas cylinder exploded, making things more difficult.

“We invited fire service and they responded to our call. Unfortunately, one of the fire fighters collapsed owing to the thick smoke from the fire.

“When his colleagues noticed it, they raised alarm. We rushed him to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, but he didn’t make it. It’s quite a sad development.

“The fire affected over 40 shops and destroyed goods worth hundreds of millions.

“We are appealing to the government and good spirited individuals to come to our rescue.”

Also, Engr Okwudili Ohaa, the Director of Enugu State Fire Service told journalists that the deceased officer was a dedicated staff.

He said his death was a huge loss to the Fire Service and the State.