A catastrophic fire has ravaged the shop of well-known TikToker Rahama Saidu, situated along UDB Road in the Tarauni Local Government Area of Kano State
A catastrophic fire has ravaged the shop of well-known TikToker Rahama Saidu, situated along UDB Road in the Tarauni Local Government Area of Kano State. This incident occurred mere hours after the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) demolished part of the shop for alleged illegal structural extensions.
Witnesses reported that the blaze ignited around 9 pm on Thursday, quickly consuming the entire shop. The cause of the fire is still undetermined, but one eyewitness suggested it may have been sparked by welding activities at a nearby establishment, which had had welders brought in for repairs following similar demolitions by KNUPDA.
The fire has raised alarms regarding the safety of local business owners, who have recently faced increased scrutiny and enforcement efforts from KNUPDA. The agency has been targeting unlawful structures and encroachments, yet the demolition of Saidu’s shop has sparked significant backlash and controversy.
This event follows shortly after KNUPDA removed Saidu’s signboard, claiming it was encroaching on public space. Saidu filed a complaint with the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, leading the commission to summon KNUPDA officials for questioning.
In response to her complaint, KNUPDA escalated its enforcement, resulting in further demolitions in Tarauni, including parts of Saidu’s shop believed to be built on public pathways. Many on social media condemned this demolition, accusing the agency of overreaching its authority.
The fire has intensified the ongoing debate, with numerous individuals calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding it. Social media commentator Bashir Ahmad noted, “While I didn’t want to comment initially on Rahama Saidu’s situation—she made a mistake by mentioning the Governor—a fire destroying her shop is absolutely unacceptable. Nothing justifies such an event, and I hope the Kano Government steps in to ensure justice and accountability.”
Though Saidu, who has a substantial following on TikTok, has refrained from commenting on the incident, her supporters are voicing their anger and solidarity online. The hashtag #JusticeForRahamaSaidu is trending on Twitter, with many urging that those responsible face consequences.
This incident has highlighted concerns regarding the safety and security of business owners in Kano, emphasizing the need for a more thoughtful approach to urban planning and development. As the investigation into the fire unfolds, it’s evident that the people of Kano are closely observing to ensure justice is achieved.
