Pandemonium As Fire Guts Popular Mechanic Workshops At Ilorin Market

A fire outbreak has destroyed mechanic workshops at the popular Ipata Oloje Market in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

The inferno began around 8: 05pm on Monday before the arrival of firemen to the scene.

The outbreak was caused by smouldering fire from a nearby refuse ignited by an unknown person, it was gathered.

Head, Media and Publicity, Kwara State Fire Service Hassan Adekunle, before the arrival of firemen the market was under threat of conflagration.

Adekunle said: “On arrival, firefighters discovered that the market, which comprises about 178 shops and mechanic workshops, was under threat.

“The fire incident affected the mechanic workshops within the market.

Preliminary investigation indicated that the fire was ignited by an unknown person who set the refuse on fire. 

“The flames quickly spread, igniting nearby combustible materials and escalating into an outbreak.

“The timely intervention of our personnel curtailed the spread of the fire and prevented further damage to the shops and adjoining structures within the market.”

He warned against the reckless burning of refuse in and around markets, as such negligent acts pose severe risks to lives and properties.

He also advises the public “to always adopt safer waste disposal practices”.