A fire outbreak has destroyed several properties in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, leaving extensive damage estimated at about ₦35 million.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, completely razed a residential building, seven shops, a drug store, and a laboratory belonging to Mr. Aliko Garba and Mr. Digma Azir.
Other nearby shop owners whose businesses were attached to Aliko’s block were also affected, with many losing valuable goods and property in the inferno.
According to preliminary assessments, medicines and laboratory materials worth about ₦25 million were lost, while the shops, store, and house were valued at about ₦10 million, bringing total losses to approximately ₦35 million.
Residents described the incident as “heartbreaking,” noting that Aliko, a well-known community health supporter in Damboa, has for years provided essential medical assistance and contributed to local welfare efforts.
“This tragedy is a great loss to the entire Damboa community. Aliko and Mr. Digma have played vital roles in supporting health services and providing medicines to the people,” a resident said.
Community members have appealed to the Senator representing Southern Borno Senatorial District, the Member representing Chibok, Damboa, and Gwoza Federal Constituency, the Member representing Damboa State Constituency, the Commissioner for Health, and the Damboa Local Government Council Chairman to support the victims.
They also called on well-meaning individuals and organisations to assist in rebuilding the affected businesses and restoring livelihoods.
“Helping them is like helping the entire Damboa community,” a statement from community members read.
