From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
In the wake of a devastating fire at Jos’s Katako Market early Monday, Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, alongside top government officials, visited the scene to assess the damage and offer support to affected traders.
The fire, which ravaged several sections of the market, left millions of naira in property losses, but miraculously, no lives were lost. Governor Mutfwang expressed his deep sympathy for the traders, highlighting the hardship caused by the incident, and vowed to work with local leaders to remodel the market into a safer and more functional trading hub.
The Governor’s visit marks a historic first, as he is the first to personally inspect the market in its 40-year history, which has experienced numerous fire outbreaks.
He assured the public of a comprehensive plan to enhance the safety and infrastructure of the market to prevent future disasters, while also emphasizing the importance of providing safe, accessible environments for the state’s traders. Local government officials and community leaders, including the Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, Hon. J.K. Chris, also showed their support, mobilizing resources to combat the blaze and pledging long-term assistance to the affected traders.
The fire, which destroyed key areas of the market, has sparked renewed calls for improved safety measures and emergency response systems.
In response, leaders like Hon. Amb. Daniel Asama Ago have committed to supporting the recovery process and preventing future incidents.
The incident has once again brought to the forefront the urgent need for significant investment in market infrastructure across Plateau State.