9am News report confirms that goods and properties estimated at hundreds of millions of naira were destroyed following a devastating fire at the Rumuomasi Morning Market in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday night.
The fire reportedly broke out between 7:30 pm and 8 pm, shortly after electricity was restored to the area. Many traders were already home when the inferno erupted, leaving them unable to save their merchandise.
When our correspondent visited the market, several traders were seen in shock, with many in tears as flames consumed their shops and goods. Federal and state firefighters, including fire teams from nearby oil firms, battled to contain the blaze. Despite facing significant challenges accessing the core of the inferno, they were eventually able to bring it under control.
Meanwhile, policemen were deployed to the area to prevent looting and ensure public order.
Mr. Anthony Chikere, a former chairman of the market and a wholesale textile dealer, described the scene as tragic. He told 9am News:
“We left the market around 6:30 pm. Less than an hour later, I got multiple calls that the market was on fire. By the time we arrived, the damage had been done. I lost everything—big laces, Damat, Senator materials, satin… even new bales we hadn’t opened yet.”
He estimates his losses at over ₦180 million, urging the government to intervene and assist affected traders in recovering from the tragedy.
Similarly, Mrs. Nkiru Olisemeka, a widow and mother of four who sells foodstuffs, shared her heartbreak.
“I have four children in the university. Everything I used to sponsor them is gone. I lost food items, cash—everything. I was even supposed to pay someone ₦500,000, which I kept aside in the shop. It’s all ashes now.”
According to her, the total estimated loss is over ₦50 million, including perishables and liquid capital.
Speaking to 9am News, Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed the incident and assured that investigations were underway to determine the exact cause of the fire.
“Our officers were present during the fire outbreak. The fire has been extinguished and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause,” she said.
Security operatives are expected to continue monitoring the area to prevent further unrest, while victims hope for swift and substantial government support to rebuild their livelihoods.
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