A stakeholder in Kano state and Managing Director of Abubakar Rimi International Market, Abdulkadir Hussein, says arrangements are in top gear to install a central fire extinguisher system across the market to prevent fire outbreaks.
Hussein disclosed this during a media briefing in Kano, noting that one of the key initiatives introduced by the current market management is the comprehensive fire safety system.
“This system will cover all areas of the market, providing an effective firefighting mechanism,” the Managing Director explained.
He noted that the market’s wide passages would enable firefighters to access all sections in the event of an emergency, adding that this existing infrastructure would complement the new fire safety measures.
Addressing other developments, Hussein revealed that the market leadership recently uncovered an online syndicate allegedly selling bleaching injections while using the Abubakar Rimi International Market (Sabongari Market) as cover.
He said the syndicate, which primarily targeted women, operated without the knowledge or consent of the market authorities.
“The discovery of the syndicate’s activities was made possible by a tip-off from a good Samaritan within the market. This prompt alert enabled the leadership to take swift action against the illicit operation,” he stated.
The Managing Director confirmed that the market collaborated with traders in the cosmetics section and officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to check the activities of the online sellers.
“This joint effort was crucial in uncovering the syndicate’s operations,” he added.
Although no arrests have been made, Alhaji Hussein said investigations are ongoing, and stressed that the perpetrators were using the market’s name to legitimise their actions.
To forestall future incidents, he said the market had set up a dedicated committee to monitor and curb illegal activities by online traders and others operating within the market environment.
He further explained that proactive measures had been taken to evacuate waste from drainage channels to reduce the risk of flooding during this year’s rainy season.
On financial reform, the Managing Director added that a cashless payment system for shop allocations had been adopted to enhance transparency and prevent fraud.
PIAK