The farming community of Blajai under Kpandai District of the Northern Region, is reeling in shock after a mysterious fire swept through 40 yam barns in different locations, destroying approximately 72,000 yam setts and tubers.
Multiple farmers suffered significant losses, including Mr. Elijah Nbenba, Mr. Nakoja Nlanjo, Mr. Sajah Bijakie, Mr. Kwaku Nyong, Mr. Solomon Nyong and Mr. John Ntima.
The affected farmers are now appealing to philanthropist, Ministry of food and agricultural, government and non-governmental organization to intervene and provide assistance to help them recover from this devastating loss.
The broadcast journalist Ibrahim Nsor visited the farm uncovered disturbing evidence of the suspected arson attack , leaving a disheartening scene in its wake.
The presence of petrol bottles among the yams strongly suggests that the fire was a deliberate act of arson, rather than an accident.
It also appears that the incident may have been a coordinated act, with multiple individuals involved, the description of people standing by each yam barn waiting for a signal before setting fire to the barns, suggests a level of planning and organization.
Madam Doris Bindefrim highlights the dire situation faced by women and children in Blajai, with their husbands yam crops destroyed, they are left with no source of income and food except for gari.
Madam Bindefrim’s emphasis on the plight of women and children underscores the need for urgent support and assistance to help them recover from this diaster.
Mr. Robert Gbanzaba, Chairman of Kpandai branch of the Konkomba Youth Association (KOYA), has added his voice to the appeal for assistance, urging individuals and benevolent organisations to come to the aid of Blajai community .
His plea highlights the desperate situation faced by the community, particularly children and parents who are struggling to survive after the devastating fire.
Mr. Agomada Kwame Kumah, Deputy National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) District director at Kpandai,has confirmed that NADMO has taken steps to address the fire incident in the area.
He said NADMO received an official complaint and promptly visited the affected farms to gather reports.
Ubor Bignali Magan the chief of Konkombas at Kpandai, told GNA that the incident has been officially reported to the Kpandai District police Command. In addition, he called for swift action from the police to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
Ubor Magan is encouraging anyone with information about the fire incident to come forward and assist the police in identifying and arresting the perpetrators.
