* After Ngwa road market inferno
Abia State governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has banned the roasting of fish, and other animals, as well as cooking in major markets in the State.
The ban came 72 hours after a incident at the Line 27 of Ngwa road market in Aba.
The inferno, which affected two shops, was allegedly kindled by a fish roaster’s stove, which was left on after the close of business.
The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, John Okiyi-Kalu, disclosed through a statement that the governoralso directed the Ministry of Trade and Investment to assess the extent of damage to goods in the two affected shops with a view to supporting the victims.
He also urged market executives to implement guidelines on fire protection within markets.
“While we thank God that the market authorities and other sympathisers were able to deploy available fire fighting equipment to quickly contain the fire, Governor Ikpeazu has 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 adding that no inflammable material is no longer allowed in the markets.
“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 distributing fire extinguishers,” the statement read.