By Cephas Chijindu CephasÂ
Okezie Ikpeazu, the Governor of Abia state, has directed an immediate ban on roasting of fish and other animals as well as cooking within the major markets in the state.
He also directed the ministry of trade and investment to evaluate the extent of damage to goods at the two affected shops with a view to supporting the concerned traders.
The latest directive by Governor Ikpeazu was contained in a release issued by the state commissioner of trade and investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, and made available to newsmen in umuahia, the state capital on Thursday.
It came on the backdrops of the fire incident which occured on Tuesday at line 27 of Ngwa road market in Aba.
AFRIPOST gathered that the inferno was kindled as a result of a fish roasters stove that was left on after close of business.
The ugly incident affected two shops and was kindled as result of a fish roaster’s stove that was left on after close of business.
Continuing, Governor Ikpeazu thanked God that the market authorities and other sympathizers were able to deploy available fire fighting equipment to quickly contain the fire.
According to Abia chief executive, “we wish to encourage all market executives to fully implement the guidelines on fire protection within our markets including ensuring that no flammable material is allowed to be stored within the Market as well as effectively distribute fire extinguishers.