Atiku, Saraki reacts to devastating fire at Sokoto Timber Market

The former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and the former Senate President, Bukola Saraki have reacted to the fire incident that torn through the Sokoto Timber Market on Wednesday 22th of January, 2025.

It was reported that the fire broke out early Wednesday at the Sokoto Timber Market, just two weeks after a similar incident.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but the flames have already destroyed several shops. Firefighters, traders, and volunteers were seen at the venue of incident battling to control the blaze, with significant losses expected.
While traders, sympathizers expressed distress over the recurring disaster, calling for urgent preventive measures. Authorities are yet to comment, and investigations into the cause are anticipated.

Atiku Abubakar on X extended his profound sympathies to the traders, their families, and the people and government of Sokoto State over this tragic incident.

He then urged the relevant authorities to act swiftly to support the victims and investigate the root cause of the fire to avert the occurrence of similar incidents in the future.

“This large-scale disaster has caused immense loss to hardworking Nigerians whose businesses and livelihoods depend on this bustling economic centre.
“Markets like the Sokoto Timber Market are lifelines for many families, and it is critical that we take necessary steps to safeguard their safety and security”, he said.

Bukola Saraki who on X said he was heartbroken to hear about the devastating fire that has torn through the Sokoto Timber Market, destroying livelihoods and impacting so many traders and their families.

According to him, “As we extend our heartfelt condolences to the traders, their families, and the entire Sokoto State, we must also commit to taking meaningful action to prevent such disasters from happening again.

“Over the years, through the #GrowNigeriaConversation, important recommendations have been made that can help reduce the risk of market fires, including enhanced fire safety planning, improved access to emergency services, and better infrastructure to protect lives and these essential spaces.
“From robust insurance programs that provide a safety net for traders to renewable energy solutions that reduce reliance on generators, there are several concrete steps that we can collectively take to create safer, more resilient marketplaces.

“Now, more than ever, it is crucial for leaders at all levels, civil society, and private sector partners to come together to implement solutions. This is not just about rebuilding what has been lost but also about ensuring that such tragedies become a thing of the past”, the former Senate President said.

Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu said he has directed emergency services to the scene to contain the fire and minimize damage and also instructed the relevant agencies to conduct a thorough assessment of the situation to determine the extent of the losses and provide immediate relief to the victims.

He said a task force has been set up to investigate cause of the fire and recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future. “We will work tirelessly to ensure that the affected traders are supported, and the market is restored to full functionality as quickly as possible.

“Our administration remains committed to the safety, security, and prosperity of all residents of Sokoto State. We’ll continue to prioritize preventive measures, infrastructure development to safeguard our markets and communities”, the Governor said.