Singa Market Inferno: Southern Governors’ Forum Stands with Kano, Victims Count Heavy Losses
The Southern Governors’ Forum has expressed deep sympathy with the Government and people of Kano State following the devastating fire outbreak that razed the popular Singa Market.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, conveyed the condolences in a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta, describing the incident as a tragic setback with far-reaching economic implications for traders and residents.
According to reports, the inferno destroyed goods and properties estimated at over ₦5 billion, affected more than 1,000 businesses, and left seven persons unaccounted for.
The fire also reportedly consumed four residential buildings that housed several small-scale enterprises, compounding the losses suffered by families who depend on daily trading activities for survival.
Abiodun characterized the incident as one of the most unfortunate disasters in the history of the market, noting that the scale of destruction represents a significant blow to livelihoods in the commercial hub.
He extended heartfelt sympathy to traders who lost merchandise, equipment, and other valuables, urging them to remain resilient in the face of adversity. The Ogun State Governor expressed confidence that the Kano State Government would take appropriate measures to mitigate the hardship experienced by the victims.
“On behalf of my colleagues in the Southern Governors’ Forum, I commiserate with the Kano State Government and the traders affected by this unfortunate incident,” Abiodun stated.
“This fire outbreak has caused tremendous damage, but I urge those affected not to despair. The Kano State Government, under the leadership of Abba Kabir Yusuf, is doing everything humanly possible to bring the situation under control and assist the victims.”
He further called on market authorities and relevant Local Government Officials to strengthen safety protocols and implement preventive strategies to avert future occurrences.
The Singa Market fire adds to growing concerns over fire safety compliance in major commercial centres, with stakeholders urging enhanced emergency response systems and stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
