Kano Govt Pledges Transparent Relief as Committee Assesses Damage at Singer Market Fire Scene

The Fund Distribution Committee set up to oversee support for victims of the recent inferno at Singer Market has conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the devastated trading hub, evaluating the scale of destruction and monitoring ongoing inspections of burnt shops and debris.

The committee, led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Faruk, toured the market to assess the clearing of gravel and other fire-damaged building materials as part of preparations for the disbursement of relief funds.

Addressing traders and stakeholders during the visit, Alhaji Umar Faruk assured victims that fairness and justice would guide the distribution process.

“We are committed to ensuring that only genuine victims benefit from this intervention,” he said. “Transparency will be strictly observed at every stage of the fund disbursement.”

The SSG appealed to affected traders to make honest and accurate declarations of their losses, stressing that integrity was crucial to achieving equitable compensation.

“Truthful documentation of damages will prevent disputes and ensure that available resources are fairly allocated among victims,” he added.

Chairman of Singer Market, Alhaji Mohammad Zakari Junaid, disclosed that anti-corruption agencies and security operatives were incorporated into the committee to strengthen accountability and prevent malpractice.

“We have involved relevant agencies to ensure strict monitoring and accountability,” he stated. “The funds will be judiciously utilized for the benefit of genuine victims.”

Also speaking, the representative of the Commissioner of Police, ACP Jauro of the Nigeria Police Force, assured traders of sustained security presence in the market.

“The Nigeria Police Force will continue to provide adequate security across the market to safeguard lives and property,” he said. “Maintaining security in Singer Market is critical to sustaining Kano’s position as a commercial hub in sub-Saharan Africa.”

In his remarks, Sarkin Fadan Kano, Alhaji Ado Kurawa, conveyed the sympathy of the Kano Emirate to the affected traders and urged them to cooperate fully with the committee.

“We share in your losses and urge you to support the committee by providing accurate information to ensure the success of this intervention,” he said.