Seven Shops Burnt in Ilorin Market Fire, Power Surge Suspected

A devastating fire broke out at the Olusola Saraki Market in the Ita-Amo area of Ilorin, Kwara State, on Friday night, destroying goods worth millions of Naira.

The Kwara State Fire Service reported that seven shops were affected out of the 276 in the market, with goods such as clothing materials, provisions, soft drinks, and meat lost in the blaze.

The incident, believed to have been triggered by a power surge caused by fluctuating electricity supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), was reported at 9:36 p.m. Firefighters responded swiftly, containing the fire and preventing further damage.

Hassan Adekunle, the Principal Fire Officer and spokesperson for the Fire Service, praised the prompt actions of the team, noting that 269 shops were saved from destruction.

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, extended sympathies to the affected traders and market leadership, urging the adoption of fire safety measures to prevent future incidents.