Panic As Fire Guts Parts Of Jama’a Emir’s Palace In Kaduna

Residents of Kafanchan in Jama’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State were thrown into panic on Friday following a fire outbreak at the Jama’a Emir’s Palace.

Naija News reports that the incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, saw thick plumes of smoke billowing from sections of the palace, drawing anxious residents and passersby to the scene.

The palace, located in Kafanchan, the headquarters of Jama’a LGA, is a prominent traditional institution in the area.

At the time of filing this report, the fire was still raging, as officials of the Kaduna State Fire Service battled to contain the inferno and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the historic building.

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 pleaded anonymity, told Daily Trust.

It was reported that officials of the Kaduna State Fire Service 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, with many expressing concern over the potential damage to the revered structure.

Security personnel were drafted to the scene to control the crowd and ensure that 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.

Naija News reports that the cause of the fire had yet to be ascertained as of press time.

Authorities have not released an official statement regarding the extent of damage or possible losses incurred in the incident.

However, efforts to completely extinguish the fire were still ongoing as firefighters continued to battle the blaze late into the day.