Governor Mala Buni of Yobe on Saturday vowed to build modern markets with fireproofs as inferno destroyed over 300 shops at Nguru Market.

In a statement by Mamman Mohammed, his media aide, the governor described the incident as “unfortunate”, stating that the modern market would protect traders’ sources of livelihood.

“This administration is committed to building modern markets with fire-proof materials across the state to safeguard our traders and their means of livelihood,” Mr Mohammed quoted the governor as saying.

“Government will continue to explore means of making life meaningful to the people.

“Government will ensure timely completion of the modern markets and allocate them to our traders to improve their means of livelihood,” he said.

He further said the governor had directed the state Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to assess the damages and furnish the government with the details for necessary action.

Ibrahim Adam, chairman of Traders Association in the market, noted that the incident occurred about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday.

He said the fire which was triggered by high electricity voltage, destroyed over 300 shops containing fabrics, used clothes, shoes, provisions, amongst others.

He called on the state and local governments to assist in rehabilitating the market which was critical to commercial activities in the area.

(NAN)