Fire Engulfs Amarata Community in Bayelsa, Causes Millions in Damages
A devastating fire broke out in Amarata Community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa, causing extensive damage to property and goods valued at millions of naira. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties in the incident.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the fire originated from a diesel-laden vehicle parked near a fuel station, ignited by a spark. Both the Bayelsa Fire Service and the police confirmed this as the cause of the fire.
According to ASP Musa Muhammed, a police spokesman, the fire was triggered by an electric spark that engulfed the vehicle, spreading rapidly to nearby buildings. The blaze extended to part of the fuel station, as well as several buildings and shops in the vicinity.
Ms Ebiomo Queen, a victim who operated a mini-supermarket in the area, estimated her losses at about N20 million, including goods and money. She expressed the devastation of losing her livelihood and appealed to the state government for assistance to rebuild her business.
Another victim, Mr Theophilus Otti, recounted how security personnel from a nearby fuel station attempted to contain the fire, but the vehicle explosion thwarted their efforts. Mr Otti’s property was already engulfed in flames by the time they intervened.
Mr Chinyere Eze, another affected resident, lamented his inability to salvage any belongings from his house, as his priority was to ensure the safety of his family and neighbors. He described losing everything except the clothes on his back.
Several other victims echoed similar sentiments, urging the state government and philanthropic individuals to aid them in starting anew after the devastating fire.
PM News
