Four shops were gutted in a midnight fire on Friday at Saki Motor Park, opposite Trans Amusement Park in the Bodija area of Ibadan North Local Government, Oyo State.
Eyewitnesses said the blaze, which started around 2 a.m., was caused by embers left unattended after traders closed for the day. The fire quickly spread, consuming four out of 11 shops before firefighters arrived at the scene.
Although no lives were lost, goods and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Mr. Maroof Akinwande, explained that the emergency was reported at 2:07 a.m. He said firefighters, led by ACFS Adedeji (Mrs.), responded swiftly and were able to contain the flames from spreading to other nearby shops and structures.
“The prompt intervention of our officers prevented further damage. Four shops were affected, but we successfully safeguarded the remaining ones and other properties within the vicinity,” Akinwande said.
He noted that the fire was traced to smouldering embers that ignited nearby combustible materials.
Akinwande, who also serves as Special Adviser on Fire Reform to Governor Seyi Makinde, used the opportunity to remind residents of the need for vigilance, particularly at night. He advised shop owners and homeowners to keep fire extinguishers handy and store emergency contact numbers.
“Always report fire outbreaks immediately and provide accurate addresses. Our hotlines remain open on 08067439223, 08054353501, or 615,” he added.
