KPCF Sympathises with Singer Market Fire Victims, Commends Govt’s ₦8bn Support
The Kano Patriotic Coalition of CSOs Forum (KPCF), a coalition of 310 civil society organisations in Kano State, has expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at Singer Market, describing the incident as a tragic setback for hundreds of families and small businesses.
In a statement jointly signed by its Convener, Hassan Ibrahim Gama, Co-Convener I, Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma, and Co-Convener II, Peter Hassan Tijjani, the coalition acknowledged the immense losses and disruptions suffered by the marketers whose livelihoods were impacted by the inferno.
KPCF commended the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for what it described as exemplary leadership and empathy, particularly his prompt visit to the scene and engagement with victims and relevant stakeholders.
The coalition also lauded the intervention of the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the donation of ₦5 billion to support affected traders.
Similarly, KPCF applauded governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), under the auspices of the APC Progressive Governors’ Forum, for their collective donation of ₦3 billion to the victims.
According to the group, the combined ₦8 billion intervention demonstrates national solidarity and a shared commitment to economic recovery and social protection.
The coalition further appreciated private individuals and corporate organisations for their contributions, and commended the professionalism and coordinated response of emergency agencies, particularly the Kano State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, whose swift actions helped contain the fire and prevent further devastation.
While acknowledging these efforts, KPCF urged the Kano State Government to constitute an independent and credible committee to ensure transparent, equitable and seamless distribution of relief funds to victims, free from favouritism and corruption.
The forum also recommended stricter enforcement of safety and accessibility standards in Singer Market and other markets across the state, including clearly demarcated emergency access routes.
It called for the provision of reliable water supply in markets to enhance fire response capacity and advocated strategic investment in advanced fire-fighting
infrastructure, including the procurement of a fire-fighting helicopter to strengthen rapid response to future incidents.
KPCF reaffirmed its commitment to constructive advocacy and partnership with government and stakeholders to promote accountability, disaster preparedness and the protection of livelihoods in Kano State.
