By Desire Emmanuel
A solar battery that exploded at a plaza in Katsina State has razed at least 14 shops, with traders losing valuables valued at millions of naira.
The incident occurred on Wednesday night, January 7 at Haiba Plaza, opposite Malumfashi Central Market at the Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to reports, the fire started from one of the shops when the solar battery installed inside exploded at the time when traders had left for home, and the fire spread to at least 13 other shops, burning them completely.
Announcing the incident on Thursday, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) disclosed that the traders arrived early in the morning to behold their shops and valuables in ruins.
NEMA wrote: “Preliminary findings indicated that the incident was triggered by a solar battery explosion in one of the shops. The fire affected no fewer than 13 shops used as stores, boutiques and other commercial outlets, resulting in the destruction of goods and property valued at millions of naira.
“No loss of life or injuries was recorded, as the prompt response of emergency personnel ensured swift containment of the fire and prevented further spread to adjoining structures.”
NEMA said the response to the incident was coordinated by NEMA in collaboration with the Malumfashi and Kafur Local Government Fire Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local authorities, and first aid groups, including JIBWIS and JNI.
