A devastating Onitsha Christmas fire broke out Wednesday morning on Ibokwu Street, near Old Market Road. The incident destroyed equipment and goods estimated at over N400 million. The fire started around 9:15 a.m. when shop owners were away celebrating Christmas. Sources said no fire officials responded to distress calls. But good-hearted individuals tried to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring houses and shops.
The affected area included the attachment buildings at the defunct General Post Office in Onitsha. Onitsha is in Anambra state, South East of Nieria. The structure had been sold to a businessman from Anambra State, who recently evicted the tenants. Some who occupied the building included artisans, book sellers, and lawyers.
The fire caused severe damage to the businesses operating there. Many occupants lost vital equipment like D I Machines, fridges, generators, crucial documents, computers, and printing machines.
A victim, Chinedu Nnamdi, said he first mistook the smoke for burning waste. He only realized the seriousness of the situation when his neighbours alerted him.
Speculations on Onitsha Christmas fire
Experts believe the fire could have been triggered by an electrical spark. While the cause remains unconfirmed, eyewitnesses cited this as a likely cause. The loss was particularly heartbreaking for many. The timing coincided with the holiday season when businesses typically experience a surge in sales.
This Onitsha Christmas fire is not an isolated incident. In recent months, similar fires have occurred across Nigeria. It is often triggered by electrical faults or dry weather. According to fire safety experts, the current dry weather makes it easier for flames to spread rapidly. The heat, combined with the overuse of electrical equipment during peak business hours, increases the likelihood of fires, particularly in poorly maintained buildings.
In Lagos, a similar fire destroyed valuable goods in a commercial complex just last month. Experts urge both business owners and local authorities to take proactive measures. This includes regular fire drills and equipment maintenance, to prevent such disasters.
Expert views on preventing future fires
Outbreaks like the Onitsha Christmas fire can be avoided with more vigilance and preparedness. According to fire safety expert, Uche Ifeanyi, “Electrical sparks are one of the most common causes of fires in commercial buildings. During the dry season, it’s crucial to ensure that wiring systems are properly maintained.”
He added that most of these fires could have been prevented with a more structured approach to safety and maintenance. “Property owners should invest in fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and fire drills,” he stressed.
Some victims of the Onitsha fire expressed regret that their businesses were destroyed. “I was looking forward to making Christmas sales. Now, all my equipment is gone,” one affected shop owners said.
Other victims of the fire call on both the government to invest in fire safety equipment. They also demand quicker emergency response from fire services, especially in commercial areas. The victims were unhappy that the firefighters did not respond to their distress calls.
Fire experts suggest that building owners should hire professionals to conduct safety checks. Such experts will conduct fire risk assessments, especially during the dry season, Ifeanyi added.
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