The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, expressed frustration with some firefighters when he visited the Adum market in Kumasi on Friday, March 21, 2025.

He was upset because some firefighters were not actively fighting the blaze, even though their vehicle was nearby and the fire was still spreading.

Unable to hold back his frustration, the minister approached the firefighters and questioned them about their inaction.

"If there is no water in the fire tender, move it away from here. What kind of behaviour is this? If there is water in it, why are you standing idle as if I am a small boy you can deceive?" he fumed.

At this point, the leader of the fire officers on the ground attempted to explain, but the minister was unwilling to listen.

"The explanations are too much. Move the vehicle from here! I have been asking about the fire tender for the past hour, but you are not telling me the truth. What kind of life is this? Move the fire tender away now, or I will order the boys to move it. It has been an hour since I asked you to bring a fire tender here."

He continued, "If you have a problem, tell me. You have not informed me of any issues or made any complaints. You assured me that there was water in the tender—is that not what you told me? If you have a challenge, I am here; I can call whoever is needed to resolve the issue. So tell me the truth.

"You need DRIP machines to help you—did you tell me? But you assured me that you had water in the tender. I believe you have no family members whose properties have been destroyed here, which is why you are behaving this way. If you have a problem, tell me—I am here. Stop giving me false assurances!"

A massive fire outbreak at Adum, in the heart of Kumasi's Central Business District, destroyed several shops and properties.

The inferno, which started early on Friday, March 21, spread rapidly to adjacent shops, causing significant losses for business owners.

The fire intensified quickly due to the highly combustible materials stored in many of the shops, making it difficult for firefighters to contain the situation immediately.

The affected section of the market is a hub for second-hand clothing traders, seamstresses, and watch repairers.

Reports say that six fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the location.

One major challenge the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) encountered was gaining access to the affected area.

The congestion within the market, coupled with limited access routes, significantly hampered firefighting efforts.

Fire personnel reportedly had to navigate through narrow alleyways while battling the raging flames.

Ashanti Regional Minister still dey Kejetia ei. pic.twitter.com/4UZ2kwcMnO

— KALYJAY (@gyaigyimii) March 21, 2025