Fire Destroys 12 Shops in Ilorin Shopping Complex

On Saturday, a fire broke out at a shopping complex in the Mandate Market area of Ilorin, Kwara State, affecting no fewer than 12 shops. The incident was reported at approximately 1:14 am, with the complex, which houses about 40 shops, already engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived.

Hassan Adekunle, spokesperson for the Kwara State Fire Service, stated that two fire appliances were deployed after receiving the distress call, and personnel from the Federal Fire Service joined the operation to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent properties. Despite their efforts, 12 shops were affected due to the late notification of the incident.

Preliminary investigations indicated that a power surge might have caused the fire, as some nearby residents reported hearing a loud combustion sound shortly after electricity was restored. Chief Fire Officer Alabi Muhammed commended the firefighters for their response and urged business owners to ensure proper electrical installations and timely reporting of fire outbreaks.