A major fire outbreak has gutted Ozyet Suya, a beloved restaurant and food spot in Nigeria's capital, Abuja, causing extensive damage in the early hours of New Year's Day.
Inferno Erupts After Celebrations
The incident occurred at the River Park Garden, the location of the popular eatery. According to eyewitness accounts, the inferno ignited shortly after the festivities marking the start of 1 January 2026. Thick, dark smoke filled the sky as the fire rapidly spread, forcing traders and nearby residents to scramble in a desperate attempt to save belongings from the burning structures.
Firefighters Battle Blaze, Cause Under Investigation
Emergency services responded swiftly to distress calls. Personnel from both the Federal Fire Service and the FCT Fire Service arrived at the scene and fought hard to contain the flames, eventually bringing the fire under control. When journalists visited, the Ozyet Suya restaurant was completely razed.
While the official cause is yet to be determined by authorities, initial unconfirmed reports point to fireworks from the New Year celebrations as a possible trigger. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact circumstances, and no casualties have been confirmed at this time.
Widespread Shock and Calls for Safety
The destruction of Ozyet Suya has sent shockwaves through the Abuja community. Many regular patrons and workers expressed deep sadness over the loss of the iconic spot. The incident has sparked urgent conversations about public safety during festivals.
Key reactions and consequences include:
- Widespread shock and dismay from the public.
- Renewed calls for stricter safety measures regarding fireworks.
- Highlighting the significant risks associated with festive celebrations.
- Property damage estimated to be worth millions of naira.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of fireworks and the importance of heightened vigilance to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
