Fire outbreak damages shops at Ilorin’s Mandate Market
A fire broke out at the Mandate Ultra-Modern Market in Ilorin, destroying at least 24 shops and causing panic among traders. The blaze affected sections of the market that house over 200 shops, with goods such as phone accessories and foodstuffs lost. Hassan Adekunle, spokesperson for the Kwara State Fire Service, said the fire was intensified by a delayed distress call but praised firefighters for containing the spread. Alabi Muhammed, the Fire Service Director, visited the scene and urged traders to invest in fire safety measures.
What happened
- The fire started in a shop selling phone accessories and a phone charging business before spreading to nearby shops.
- Firefighters received a distress call at about 4:44 a.m. and responded quickly to contain the blaze.
- Hassan Adekunle stated that the destruction was worsened by the late call to the Fire Service.
- Alabi Muhammed visited the market, sympathised with affected traders, and assured them of ongoing support from the Fire Service.
- The Fire Service reminded traders about annual fire safety sensitisation campaigns and encouraged investment in safety equipment.
