A fire erupted at the Chemical Market in Talata-Mafara Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State on Tuesday.
Authorities believe the blaze was caused by the reckless disposal of a cigarette butt onto gunpowder, sparking the devastating fire.
The tragic incident has claimed the lives of three people, while 46 others have been injured.
The wounded are now being treated at Usman Danfodio Teaching Hospital (UDUTH).
This was made known via a statement on NEMA’s X handle on Wednesday, February 19.
The statement reads: “An explosion occurred at the Chemical Market in Talata-Mafara LGA, Zamfara State. This market is known for selling various chemicals.
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“The incident took place on the afternoon of February 18, 2025. Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was triggered by the careless disposal of a cigarette remnant on gunpowder, leading to a massive fire outbreak.
“The explosion resulted in significant damage, affecting 50 individuals with varying degrees of injuries. Three fatalities have been recorded, while 46 injured persons are receiving treatment at Usman Danfodio Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) due to the severity of their conditions.
“Upon receiving the report, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) deployed a Search and Operations (SOO) team to UDUTH to assess the situation. The team confirmed that victims are being treated in different hospital divisions, including the orthopedic ward, surgical unit, ICU burns unit, and ENT division.”
 of Zamfara State on Tuesday.){kind=link}