Late-night fire in Ilorin claims life of 52-year-old man

A tragic fire incident occurred late at night on February 27, 2026, in Ilorin, Kwara State, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old man. The fire broke out at approximately 11:38 PM at a short-let apartment building along Coca Cola Road, specifically in the Lafia Hotel area.

The structure, which comprised two flats and three bedrooms, was completely gutted by the flames. According to a statement from Hassan Adekunle, the Public Relations Officer of the Kwara State Fire Service, the entire building was heavily filled with smoke, making it extremely difficult for occupants to escape.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the fire was caused by a power surge that occurred immediately after power was restored, leading to rapid fire spread. Firefighters arrived promptly and managed to control the blaze within minutes using three fire appliances.

Alabi Muham, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, expressed deep concern over the loss of life and urged property owners, particularly those operating short-let apartments, to prioritize electrical safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.