A devastating fire broke out at the popular Rumuomasi Morning Market in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday night, destroying goods and properties valued at millions of Naira.
When our correspondent arrived at the scene, numerous traders were seen in distress—some visibly devastated, others openly weeping as they watched helplessly while their goods were consumed by the flames.
Eyewitnesses and affected traders reported that the fire started between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., shortly after the electricity supply was restored, allegedly following an electrical spark.
Firefighters from both the federal and Rivers State fire services, along with emergency crews from nearby oil companies, responded swiftly. However, they encountered challenges accessing the core of the blaze, which delayed firefighting efforts. Despite these obstacles, they eventually succeeded in extinguishing the fire.
Security was also heightened at the scene, with police officers standing guard to prevent looting and maintain order as emergency operations continued.
