Oyo State Investigates Bode Market Fire Incident

The Oyo State government has commenced an investigation into a fire incident that occurred at Bode Market in Ibadan, which took place in the early hours of Friday. The blaze destroyed shops and goods valued at millions of naira, leaving traders to assess their losses.

Ismail Adeleke, the Director of Operations at the Oyo State Fire Service, reported that the fire had spread extensively before firefighters arrived on the scene. The firefighting operation lasted five hours before the fire was brought under control.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but a post-fire investigation is already underway to establish the triggers of the incident. Videos from the scene depicted distraught traders, including men and women, mourning the aftermath of the inferno that consumed a significant portion of the market, which is one of the largest trade hubs in Ibadan, known for its diverse offerings including herbs, animals, and traditional products.