A fire broke out early Monday morning, consuming the only market in Trademore Estate, Lugbe, Abuja.
The blaze, which started around 3:30 a.m. after power was restored by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, spread quickly before help could arrive.
While the exact cause is not yet confirmed, locals speculate that an electrical malfunction could be to blame.
Residents were among the first to spot the fire, with one eyewitness noting the chaotic scene.
Despite attempts to reach the Federal Fire Service and local responders, it was a fire truck from Dunamis Church that arrived first.
Other teams from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Sauka Station followed shortly after.
By 5:30 a.m., the flames were under control, but the damage was done. As of now, the total loss and the number of affected traders are still unknown, though cleanup efforts have begun.
This is the latest in a series of unfortunate events for the estate, as it had previously been flooded in June 2023.
