A devastating fire has swept through the Yan Katako Market in Gombe city, leaving traders counting heavy losses after shops and goods were destroyed. The market, located near the railway station, was engulfed by flames on Monday, triggering panic and renewed fears among business owners.
The latest incident marks the second major fire outbreak at the popular timber and building materials market in 2025, raising concerns over safety standards and fire prevention measures in the area. Many traders said repeated incidents were threatening their livelihoods.
Confirmation of the fire came in a statement issued on Monday by the Director-General of Media to the Gombe State Governor, Ismaila Uba Misilli. The statement said the blaze caused extensive damage, though no official estimate of losses has been released.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed sympathy with affected traders, describing the incident as painful and distressing. He conveyed concern over the destruction of shops and valuables and assured victims that the state government would not abandon them.
The governor directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other relevant agencies to immediately investigate the cause of the fire and provide support to those affected. He also called for measures to prevent a recurrence.
Firefighters from the Gombe State Fire Service responded swiftly to the emergency, supported by volunteers from Gombe State University, the Federal Fire Service, the Red Cross, security agencies, and members of the public. Their combined efforts helped to contain the blaze.
During the rescue operation, one of the fire service trucks was involved in an accident, leaving some personnel injured. Governor Yahaya expressed concern over the incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of those affected, as investigations into the fire continue.
