Fire Destroys 24 Shops at Kwara's Mandat Market

Early on Tuesday, a fire outbreak at Mandat Ultra Modern Market in Ilorin, Kwara State, resulted in the destruction of 24 shops containing valuable goods, including phone accessories and foodstuff. The Kwara State Fire Service, led by spokesperson Hassan Adekunle, received a distress call at 4:44 AM and immediately mobilized to the scene.

However, the fire had already spread significantly due to the late call, which intensified the situation. Despite this, the firefighters managed to prevent further destruction across the market complex.

Preliminary findings indicated that the fire was triggered by a power surge, starting in a shop selling phone accessories. Alabi Muham, the director of the Kwara State Fire Service, visited the scene to sympathize with affected traders and assured them of continued support.

He urged market operators to prioritize fire safety measures, including the installation of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, especially in situations where shop owners may not be present during emergencies.