Goods worth millions destroyed as fire guts Ilorin shopping complex
Fire Destroys Multiple Shops at Mandate Shopping Complex in Ilorin
ILORIN, Nigeria – A significant fire broke out early Saturday at the Mandate Shopping Complex, resulting in the destruction of goods valued at millions of Naira. The complex, situated opposite the Alkad Filling Station within the Mandate Market area, houses approximately 40 shops.
Hassan Adekunle, spokesperson for the Kwara State Fire Service, reported that the blaze presented a substantial threat of spreading to nearby shops and properties. In response, two fire appliances were promptly dispatched to the scene.
“We received reinforcement from personnel of the Federal Fire Service, who assisted in a coordinated effort to control and extinguish the fire,” Adekunle said.
Despite the swift response, the fire affected 12 shops, primarily due to delayed notification of the incident. Adekunle noted that the combined efforts of both fire services helped prevent further damage to the rest of the shopping complex and nearby structures.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a power surge may have ignited the fire, with witnesses reporting a loud noise shortly after electricity was restored in the area.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Chief Fire Officer Alabi Muhammed praised the Kwara Fire Service for their quick and professional response, as well as the Federal Fire Service for its timely collaboration. He urged business owners to ensure their electrical installations are conducted by qualified professionals and to monitor their electrical appliances.
Muhammed highlighted the critical importance of reporting fire emergencies without delay, stating that quicker notification can enhance firefighters’ ability to contain incidents before they escalate and lead to extensive damage.
