A devastating midnight fire has destroyed goods worth approximately ₦70 million in a double wholesale shop along Umuohu Okpula Ndume axis of Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road, Umuahia, Abia State on Friday.
The incident occurred just six days after another midnight fire destroyed property in a shop at Abriba street by Owerri road in the same city, raising concerns about fire safety in the area.
Shop Owner Recounts Devastating Loss
The victim, Mrs. Abigail Uzodinma, narrated her ordeal to BenriNews in tears, expressing confusion over how her shop caught fire when there was no electricity supply or inflammable materials present.
"I received a surprise phone call at midnight that my shops stocked with millions of Naira worth of goods were on fire," she said.
Among the items destroyed were bags of rice, garri, condiments, and other valuable goods. Mrs. Uzodinma estimated the total value of destroyed merchandise at approximately ₦70 million.
She has appealed to the Abia State government and well-meaning individuals to assist her in paying off debts incurred and reestablishing her business.
BenriNews gathered that the timely intervention of the Abia State Fire Service and local residents prevented the fire from spreading to neighboring buildings.
Another Business Owner Reports Theft
In a related development, a 43-year-old businesswoman, Mrs. Njideka Okoye, has reported that thieves broke into her shop at World Bank Housing Estate in Umuahia and stole 70 bags of rice.
Mrs. Okoye stated that the theft occurred just days after she moved into the shop. She has also appealed for assistance from the state government and called for the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible.
These incidents highlight growing concerns about security and safety for business owners in Umuahia, as they face significant financial losses from both fire incidents and theft.
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