Fire destroys shops in Kwara Market, causing millions in losses
A fire outbreak at the Olusola Saraki Market in the Ita-Amo area of Ilorin, Kwara State on Friday has caused major losses to traders in the state.
The Fire Service in a statement signed by the Principal Fire Officer and Head of Media and Publicity of the state Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, on Saturday, said the incident at the Olusola Saraki Market was caused by a power surge resulting from fluctuating electricity supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
The Kwara State Fire Service received an emergency call around 9:36 PM and promptly dispatched firefighters to the scene.
Upon arrival at the Olusola Saraki Market, the Kwara State fire fighters discovered multiple shops engulfed in flames within a market that comprises a total of 276 shops. Thanks to their swift response and professional intervention, they were able to contain the fire effectively.
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The fire ultimately affected seven shops, which included various vendors such as meat sellers and clothing material stores. Remarkably, the firefighters managed to save 269 other shops from destruction.
Adekunle confirmed that while damage was limited to seven shops at the Olusola Saraki Market, the losses incurred by those affected are significant.
Prince Falade John, the Director of Kwara State Fire Service, expressed sympathy towards those impacted and emphasized the importance of adopting fire safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This incident has further highlighted the general concerns regarding electrical safety and disaster preparedness in markets across Nigeria. Traders and local authorities are now calling for improved safety regulations and better response mechanisms to mitigate future risks associated with fire outbreaks.
