Fegge Fire Disaster: Millions Lost as Midnight Blaze Destroys Workshop, Property in Onitsha

 

Residents of Fegge, a densely populated area in Onitsha, Anambra State, woke up to scenes of devastation on Thursday morning after a fire outbreak engulfed part of a building and reduced valuable property to ashes. The inferno, which occurred in the early hours of the day, has left victims grappling with monumental losses, estimated to run into several millions of naira.

The disaster struck at around 2:30 am when, according to eyewitness accounts, a power surge sparked the flames that rapidly spread through a section of the building. One of the worst-hit victims, Mr. Jude—an entrepreneur operating a mini industrial sewing facility on the top floor—recounted how the flames consumed not only his equipment but his livelihood.

“There was constant power fluctuation throughout Wednesday night. At about 2:30 am, the fire started. Before anyone could react, it had already taken over my workshop. The loss is unbearable,” he told reporters, still visibly shaken.

Mr. Jude disclosed that he lost seven industrial sewing machines, each valued at approximately N1.5 million, along with six standard sewing machines. Also destroyed in the blaze were stockpiles of high-quality fabric materials awaiting delivery. The total estimated value of the damage remains unquantified but is presumed to be in the tens of millions.

Beyond the toll on his business, Mr. Jude’s emotional distress has been compounded by the uncertainty of starting over. He said that the facility was the result of years of hard work and savings. “I had built this from scratch with everything I had. Watching it all go up in flames was like watching a part of me die.”

The landlord of the affected building, Mr. Aaron Ezeobi, also expressed frustration and sorrow over the incident. Although saddened by the loss, he disclosed that he had warned the tenant multiple times against using a residential space for industrial activity. “I had issued a quit notice which was due to expire next month,” he explained. “Now the structure has been compromised, and rebuilding at this time will be a financial burden, especially with the current cost of materials.”

Ezeobi lamented that despite his cautionary stance, his property has now become part of the collateral damage from an unfortunate incident that could have been avoided. He further noted that he had plans to renovate the building soon but will now have to channel resources towards repairs and re-roofing, following extensive fire damage.

The tragedy drew the attention of the federal lawmaker representing Onitsha North and South Constituency, Engr. Emeka Idu, who promptly visited the site to assess the damage and offer moral and financial support. Describing the situation as heartbreaking, Idu offered a message of encouragement and a plea for resilience.

“I sympathize deeply with both Mr. Jude and the landlord. This kind of sudden loss can easily lead to emotional and mental breakdowns if not managed carefully,” he said. “I’m urging both parties not to allow this event affect their health. Thinking too much can lead to high blood pressure, which we all know can result in more serious conditions like stroke.”

To alleviate immediate distress, the lawmaker presented a financial support package of N200,000 to Mr. Jude. He also promised to follow up by conducting a detailed inquiry into the replacement costs of the destroyed equipment with the aim of providing further support.

“This N200,000 is to help you get through the next few days. When you're ready to begin the process of rebuilding, let us know. We will see how best we can assist with the purchase of new sewing machines,” Idu assured the embattled business owner.

He also advised the landlord to alert him when reconstruction work begins so he could contribute towards re-roofing the building. “I will make my own contribution once the repair works are underway. We have to stand with each other during difficult times,” he added.

The fire incident has reignited concerns over the safety of mixing residential and commercial activities in buildings not structured for industrial use. Urban development experts and local authorities have often warned about the risks posed by unregulated power usage and overcrowded wiring in such settings.

As the community tries to recover from the shock, there are growing calls for the enforcement of building codes and stricter monitoring of business operations within residential zones. Stakeholders are urging relevant agencies to carry out awareness campaigns to help residents understand the risks associated with indiscriminate power usage and improper building modifications.

For now, the residents of Fegge will rally around the victims, offering solidarity and assistance where possible, as Mr. Jude and Mr. Ezeobi begin the painful process of recovery. One thing remains clear: the scars left by the flames will linger longer than the heat that caused them.