Early fire guts eight 10 rooms, 20 shops in Ilorin

A fire accident in the early hours of Wednesday engulfed 10 rooms and 20 shops at Alangua Compound, opposite Kulende Market, Sango Area of Ilorin in Kwara State.

By the time the fire fighters were contacted, the affected building had already been engulfed in flames.

The Public Relations Officer, Kwara fire services, Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, confirmed that “before the arrival of our firefighters due to the late notification.”

He said that his men received the distress call and turned out at 05:16hrs, arriving at the scene at 05:32hrs.

“Upon arrival, our gallant firefighters immediately commenced intensive firefighting operations and successfully brought the fire under control at 06:10hrs.

“The fire affected eight rooms, while other adjoining buildings were successfully protected from the spread of the flames through the swift and coordinated intervention of our personnel,” he said.

However, our reporter gathered from neighbours that the incident occurred moments after power was restored to the area.

The affected room reportedly contained a large quantity of used rubber slippers and flip-flops collected by scavengers for recycling purposes. The combustible nature of the materials contributed significantly to the rapid spread of the fire.

The Chief Fire Officer, CFS Alabi Muhammed, commended the firefighters for their dedication, professionalism and determination in containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to adjoining buildings.

He advised residents, traders and recycling operators to exercise caution when storing combustible materials, particularly rubber products, plastics, foam and other highly flammable items.

He further urged members of the public to ensure that such materials are stored in properly ventilated and designated areas, away from potential sources of ignition.

The Chief Fire Officer also emphasised the importance of reporting fire incidents immediately, as early notification gives firefighters a better opportunity to minimise damage and protect surrounding properties.

The Kwara State Fire Service remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state through prompt emergency response and continuous public fire safety education.