A devastating incident occurred on Monday morning in the Ile Megida Onikanhun compound, Isale Edun area of Ilorin, and Ilorin South local government area of Kwara state.
More than 40 buildings, serving both residential and commercial purposes, were engulfed in flames, leaving 120 occupants homeless and affecting 44 rooms, including a mosque in the 75-room Magaji Onikanhun Compound. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported.
The fire, triggered by an unknown person igniting refuse around 11:00 am, rapidly spread due to the dry harmattan season.
The inferno consumed buildings where various items such as fairly used doors, furniture, bedding, building materials, and metal products were sold.
Despite the efforts of firefighters, who responded to a late call, and the assistance of local youths in evacuating elderly residents, significant damage was incurred.
In a statement, Hassan Adekunle, Head of the Department of Media and Publicity for the Kwara State Fire Service, expressed sympathy for Magaji Megida Onikanhun’s representative, Kuranga Yunus Adebayo, and other victims.
Adekunle explained that upon arrival at the scene, the firefighters found the entire compound and Edun market engulfed in flames. To enhance firefighting efforts, part of the fence was dismantled for better access.
Additional manpower was requested, and by 11:22 am, the firefighters successfully brought the situation under control within an hour, extinguishing the fire.
Investigation revealed that the fire originated from ignited refuse, initially mistaken for harmless smoke, which then spread to nearby compounds.
The statement acknowledged the presence of the Federal Fire Service, officers from the Department of Disaster Management (NSCDC), and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
NSCDC officers played a crucial role in crowd control to prevent potential looting, safeguarding both market goods and firefighters.
Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, urged the public to prioritize safety, especially during this period, and emphasized the importance of promptly calling the fire brigade during emergencies. This, he stated, would contribute to saving lives and protecting properties in the state.
