In a tragic turn of events, the Enugu State Fire Service mourns the loss of Mr. Chigozie Ugwu, a dedicated mechanical engineer and senior fire officer, who succumbed to the aftermath of battling a midnight fire at the Enugu State Motor Spare Parts Market.
Ugwu led his team tirelessly as they fought to extinguish the flames that ravaged less than 10 shops, resulting in the destruction of goods worth millions of naira.
Director of Enugu State Fire Service, Okwudili Ohaa, confirmed Ugwu’s passing, expressing grief over the loss of a committed worker who had 15 firemen reporting to him.
Ohaa revealed that Ugwu, despite being unwell, showed unwavering dedication by continuing to work. Ohaa stated, “If it were some others, they would use it as an excuse.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation, with suspicions pointing towards a potential electrical fault in one of the shops.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the fire originated in a spare parts shop, later spreading to a fast-food joint. Unfortunately, a gas cylinder explosion further complicated the situation.
President of the Spare Parts Market Association, Mr. Mike Nome, confirmed significant losses, stating, “the fire affected over 40 shops and destroyed goods worth hundreds of millions.”
He detailed the challenging efforts to contain the fire, involving the fire service and the subsequent collapse of Mr. Ugwu due to thick smoke inhalation.
Mr. Nome issued an appeal for government intervention and assistance from well-meaning individuals to aid the affected traders.
The tragic incident underscores the risks faced by firefighters in the line of duty and the urgent need for measures to prevent such devastating fires in the future.
The Enugu community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, emphasizing the sacrifices made by those committed to ensuring public safety.
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