Fire Consumes Millions in Property, Leaves Over 120 Homeless in Illorin

A devastating fire outbreak in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, wreaked havoc on Monday, resulting in the destruction of property worth millions of naira and rendering over 120 individuals homeless.

The incident unfolded around 11:08 am, as reported by Hassan Adekunle, the spokesperson for the state fire service. The Kwara State Fire Service promptly responded to the emergency at Megida Onikanhun Compound, Edun Isale, in the Ilorin South Local Government Area.

Adekunle stated, “Upon arrival, the firefighters found the entire compound and Edun Market engulfed in flames due to a late call. To enhance firefighting efforts, part of the fence was dismantled for better access.” Additional manpower was summoned, and the proficient firefighters managed to bring the situation under control within an hour, fully extinguishing the fire.

The investigation revealed that the fire originated from someone setting refuse ablaze, initially mistaken for harmless smoke. Unfortunately, it spread to the nearby compound.

Expressing condolences to Magaji Megida Onikanhun’s representative, Kuranga Yunus Adebayo, Adekunle commended the fire service’s swift and effective response. The fire incident left over 120 occupants homeless, impacting 44 rooms and a mosque in the 75-room Magaji Onikanhun’s Compound. Fortunately, there were no casualties.

Multiple agencies, including the Federal Fire Service, the Department of Disaster Management, NSCDC, and State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), along with operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, collaborated to ensure crowd control and prevent potential looting, safeguarding both market goods and the firefighters.

Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, the Director of Kwara State Fire Service, urged the public to prioritize safety, especially during this period, and encouraged timely reporting of fire emergencies. This, he emphasized, would play a crucial role in saving lives and protecting properties in the state.