Midnight Blaze Destroys Gombe Timber Market, Gov Yahaya Launches Urgent Investigation

According to Ireporter Online, a fire erupted late Monday night at the Kasuwar Katako timber market in Gombe, destroying multiple shops and goods valued at millions of naira. The incident, which occurred after business hours near the Railway Station area of the state capital, left traders in shock and despair.

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the fire as “painful and distressing,” acknowledging the significant impact on the livelihoods of traders who depend on the market to support their families. In a statement signed by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor extended his sympathy to those affected and assured them of government support during this difficult period.

Governor Yahaya instructed the Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (GSEMA) and other relevant authorities to immediately assess the damage, investigate the cause of the fire, and provide urgent assistance to affected traders. He also commended the prompt response of the Gombe State Fire Service, Gombe State University personnel, the Federal Fire Service, private water tanker operators, security agencies, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society, whose combined efforts helped prevent further devastation.

The statement confirmed that one firefighting truck was involved in an accident during the operation. The governor expressed concern and offered prayers for the swift recovery of those injured. He urged traders to remain calm while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening fire prevention and emergency response systems across the state. Plans are reportedly underway to establish a modern fire service facility to enhance future emergency response.

Governor Yahaya assured that all measures would be taken to minimize the recurrence of such incidents.