120 Homeless as Fire Engulfs 44 Rooms in Kwara

On Monday, a devastating fire swept through Megida Onikahun compound in Edun Isale, Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, leaving over 120 people homeless and destroying 44 rooms

The ancient compound and the surrounding market were engulfed in flames, marking a tragic event for the community.

According to gathered information, some good samaritans evacuated four elderly individuals from the house as thick smoke engulfed the traditional building

However, the Kwara State Fire Service said that there were no injuries during the incident, which lasted for over an hour before their team managed to put out the raging fire.

Hassan Adekunle, the Head of Media and Publicity for the state fire service, mentioned that the fire incident, starting from a morning refuse dump, was attended to by state firefighters around 11:08 am.

According to Adekunle, “The Kwara State Fire Service operatives responded to a fire incident at Megida Onikanhun Compound, Edun Isale, Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State on Monday, January 15, 2024.The firefighters, upon arrival, found the entire compound and Edun Market engulfed in flames due to a late call. To enhance firefighting efforts, part of the fence was dismantled for better access

“At 11:22 am, an assistant message was sent to the Brigade Headquarters for additional manpower, and the proficient firefighters successfully brought the situation under control within an hour before completely extinguishing the fire

“Investigation revealed that an unknown person had ignited refuse, initially mistaken for harmless smoke. Unfortunately, it had spread to the nearby compound, lamenting that the incident left over 120 occupants homeless, affecting 44 rooms and a mosque in the 75-room Magaji Onikanhun Compound. Fortunately, there were no casualties”, he said

“The Federal Fire Service and officers from the Department of Disaster Management of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and State Emergency Management Agency were present at the scene.
The NSCDC officers ensured crowd control to prevent potential looting, safeguarding both market goods and the firefighters”, he said.

After successfully controlling the fire, Adekunle extended condolences to Kuranga Adebayo, the representative of Magaji Megida Onikanhun, on behalf of the state Fire Service Director, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa.

He said that the director emphasized the importance of public safety, especially during this dry season.
The general public was urged not to hesitate to call the fire brigade promptly in case of any fire emergency in their areas, as doing so would effectively save lives and property in the state

Kanyi Daily recalls that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had announced the donation of N100m as compensation to victims of the Akere market fire.