By Mardiyyah Abubakar
A fire outbreak has destroyed goods worth millions of naira at the popular Bode Market in Ibadan, Oyo State, leaving many traders with heavy losses.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Friday, razed several shops and destroyed merchandise and other valuables before firefighters contained the blaze.
The swift response prevented the fire from spreading to other sections of the busy market.
Emergency responders, however, encountered difficulties accessing parts of the market because of its congested layout and closely packed shops, slowing firefighting efforts.
Videos from the scene showed distraught traders assessing the extent of the damage and lamenting the loss of their businesses.
Authorities were yet to determine the cause of the fire.
Bode Market is one of Ibadan’s largest commercial centres, serving as a major trading hub for herbs, animal skins and other traditional products.
