A devastating fire outbreak in the Barnawa area of Kaduna South Local Government claimed the life of a 59-year-old woman on Wednesday.
The fire, which erupted in the afternoon, completely destroyed a six-flat building along with several neighbouring houses.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred at 31 Garba Abbas Street, where the victim was trapped inside her home due to illness. The inferno spread rapidly, engulfing the entire structure before help could arrive.
Her husband, Anthony Peter, explained that his wife was unable to escape as she was bedridden and had no one to assist her while he was away. Tragically, by the time neighbours became aware of the fire, it was too late to rescue her.
The fire reportedly broke out when most of the building’s occupants had already left for their daily activities. The flames consumed the entire property, leaving nothing behind. Residents and onlookers watched helplessly as the fire reduced homes and personal belongings to ashes.
According to witnesses, emergency services arrived but could do little to save the burning structures. The cause of the fire remains unknown, though some speculate it may have been triggered by an electrical fault or an unattended flame.
The impact of the fire has been devastating for the affected families, who have lost not only a loved one but also their homes and possessions. Many of the victims are now appealing to the Kaduna State government for urgent assistance, including shelter and financial aid, to help them rebuild their lives.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and emergency response readiness in residential areas.