A midnight fire devastated Ladipo and Owode Onirin markets in Lagos, destroying goods worth millions. Firefighters battled the infernos for hours, successfully containing the flames. No casualties were reported, and investigations are underway to determine the cause. Traders lament their losses, calling for improved fire safety measures.
A massive fire erupted in the early hours of Tuesday, engulfing Ladipo Market in Mushin and Owode Onirin Market along Ikorodu Road, Lagos. The inferno, which started around 1 a.m., destroyed numerous shops stocked with vehicle spare parts, metallic materials, and household appliances, causing traders to suffer huge losses.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire spread rapidly, consuming warehouses and market stalls. Firefighters from multiple Lagos fire stations, including Isolo, Alausa, and Ikorodu, worked tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that their teams managed to contain the flames by early morning, preventing further destruction to surrounding properties.
Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, stated that no casualties were reported in either incident. However, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fires. She assured the public that authorities would conduct a thorough assessment to prevent similar occurrences.
Traders at both markets lamented their losses, calling for better fire safety measures. Some expressed frustration over the frequent fire outbreaks in Lagos markets, urging the government to enforce stricter safety regulations and provide adequate firefighting equipment.
While the immediate cause of the fires remains unknown, emergency responders have urged traders and business owners to prioritize fire safety to avoid future disasters.
