Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, on Monday night expressed deep sorrow and devastation over the tragic fire outbreak that gutted a section of the main Timber Market popularly referred to as Kasuwar Katako along the Railway Station in Gombe.
Our correspondent reports that the inferno which occurred on Monday night after close of business by the traders destroyed shops, goods and means of livelihood of many traders and business owners.
The governor in a press statement signed by Ismaila Misilli, Director-General Press Affairs Gombe Government House, described the incident as painful and distressing, noting that the scale of destruction is a huge setback to hardworking men and women who depend on the market for their daily sustenance.
Yahaya extended his heartfelt sympathy to affected shop owners, traders and all individuals who suffered losses as a result of the inferno, “We assure them that the government stands firmly with them at this difficult moment,” the governor reassured.
In response to the incident, the governor has directed the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other relevant agencies to immediately move in, conduct a thorough assessment and investigation into the cause of the fire, and provide urgent relief and support to cushion the impact on victims.
He commended the Gombe State Fire Service, fire fighters from Gombe State University (GSU), the Federal Fire Service, private tanker operators as well Security agencies and Nigerian Red Cross Society for their swift response which helped in bringing the fire under control and preventing further damage.
While sympathising with the victims, Yahaya called on those affected to remain calm, adding “We want to assure them that government will take necessary steps to mitigate their losses and strengthen preventive measures to avert future occurrences.”
The governor also reiterated his administration’s resolve to establish a state-of-the-art fire service office, fully equipped to complement existing fire-fighting facilities across the state, in line with his commitment to protect lives, property and investments.
The statement disclosed that Yahaya was equally informed of an accident involving one of the fire-fighting trucks while responding to the emergency, expressing sympathy to those involved and prayed for their quick recovery.
“Governor Inuwa Yahaya prayed to Almighty Allah for continued protection over Gombe State, its people and their means of livelihood, and for comfort and strength for all those affected by this unfortunate incident,” he added.
