A massive fire has gutted the Enugu Timber shade Market at Uwani, Enugu South LGA, causing extensive damage to property and goods.
The blaze, which broke out in the late hours of Saturday, left several traders devastated as large quantities of timber and other building materials were destroyed.
Eyewitnesses told DAILY GAZETTE correspondent that thick smoke billowed from the market and spread rapidly, consuming shops and warehouses in its path.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, but officials believe it could have been sparked by electrical faults or an accident.
The Enugu State Fire Service responded promptly to the scene, deploying several fire trucks to contain the blaze.
However, the scale of the inferno made it difficult for the firefighters to prevent further damage.
It took several hours before the fire was brought under control, and by then, many of the market stalls had been completely destroyed.
Market traders expressed frustration and concern as they counted their losses.
Many said they had lost their entire stock, which was meant for sale during the yuletide season.
