The Governor of Sokoto State, Aliyu Waziri, has officially unveiled a high-level committee to investigate the recent devastating fire at the Sokoto Central Market. The committee, which is composed of senior government officials, security experts, and market stakeholders, will thoroughly examine the cause of the fire and recommend measures to prevent future incidents.
The fire, which occurred on January 22, 2025, caused significant damage to properties and businesses, leaving several traders and families affected. The Governor expressed his deep concern over the destruction and assured the public that the state government is committed to providing all necessary support to the victims.
Speaking during the unveiling of the committee, Governor Aliyu emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of the fire and implementing preventive strategies for Sokoto's markets. He said, “This tragic incident has affected many lives, and we must ensure that we learn from it. The committee will conduct a detailed investigation and provide a comprehensive report, which will guide the state’s efforts in mitigating such disasters in the future.”
The committee, chaired by the State Commissioner for Emergency Management, will engage with relevant stakeholders, including fire service officials, market leaders, and safety experts, to gather insights into the incident and offer recommendations for improved market infrastructure, fire safety protocols, and emergency response systems.
In the coming days, the committee will also meet with victims of the fire to assess their losses and discuss the available relief measures. The state government has promised immediate assistance to those affected, including compensation for businesses that suffered severe damages.