Fire destroys property worth millions in Onitsha

Panic gripped residents of Fegge in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Thursday as a fire outbreak destroyed property worth millions of naira in a residential building used for commercial purposes.

The inferno, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, reportedly gutted a mini industrial sewing workshop located on the top floor of the building, damaging several machines and materials.

One of the victims, Mr. Jude, who operated the sewing factory, said the fire started around 2:30 a.m. and was caused by an electrical surge following erratic power supply the previous night.

“The fire destroyed everything, including seven industrial sewing machines valued at about N1.5 million each, six other sewing machines, and cloth materials worth several millions of naira,” he said.

The building’s landlord, Mr. Aaron Ezeobi, expressed frustration over the incident, noting that he had earlier warned the tenant against using the residential property as a business premises.

“I had already issued him a quit notice, which was due to expire next month. The fire is a huge blow, especially with the current high cost of building materials,” he lamented.

In a swift response, the member representing Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Engr. Emeka Idu, visited the scene and sympathized with both the landlord and the affected tenant.

The lawmaker offered financial assistance to Mr. Jude and assured further support, including plans to contribute to the replacement of the burnt sewing machines.

“I urge you not to dwell too much on the loss to avoid stress-related health issues. This N200,000 is to support you for now. Once you’re ready to replace the machines, let us know so we can assist further,” Idu stated.

He also promised to support the landlord once the rebuilding process begins, particularly in re-roofing the affected structure.