Residents of Kafanchan in Jama’a Local Government Area, Kaduna State, were thrown into panic on Friday following a fire outbreak at the Jama’a Emir’s Palace.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, sent thick plumes of smoke billowing from sections of the palace, drawing anxious residents and passersby to the scene. The palace, situated in Kafanchan — the administrative headquarters of Jama’a LGA — is a prominent traditional institution in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, the fire was still raging, with officials of the Kaduna State Fire Service battling to contain the inferno and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the historic structure.
Witnesses said the blaze was first noticed in one section of the palace, prompting frantic calls for emergency assistance.
“We suddenly saw smoke coming out from one part of the palace. Before we knew what was happening, the fire had intensified,” a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity told journalists.
Fire service officials reportedly arrived shortly after receiving distress calls and immediately commenced firefighting operations.
The thick smoke rising from the palace premises attracted large crowds from neighbouring communities, many of whom expressed concern over potential damage to the revered structure.
Security personnel were deployed to the scene to control the crowd and ensure emergency responders had unhindered access to the affected areas. Access to certain sections of the palace was restricted as firefighters worked tirelessly to douse the flames.
Local volunteers were also seen assisting security agents and emergency officials in managing the situation.
As of press time, the cause of the fire had yet to be ascertained. Authorities have not released an official statement regarding the extent of the damage or any losses incurred.
Efforts to completely extinguish the fire were still ongoing late into the day as firefighters continued to battle the blaze.
We are not surprised