Properties worth millions of naira were destroyed in a fire incident that ravaged a shopping complex in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday.
According to reports, the fire affected two shops in the multi-storey shopping complex that houses a total of thirty-five shops.
Fire Service Response
Chairman of Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, confirmed the incident, stating that the fire was reported at exactly 10:35 hours on Monday, June 9, 2025.
"Fire personnel from fire service headquarters led by ACFS Adesina Olusoji promptly responded to the scene of the incident," Akinwande said in a statement made available to BenriNews.
"On arrival, it was discovered that shops on the upper floor of the storey shopping complex were on fire. We swiftly engaged our equipment and curtailed the fire from gaining momentum, restricting it from spreading to other shops," he added.
Cause of the Fire
According to the Fire Service chairman, the blaze was caused by "sparks from closed high tension poles that ignited combustibles on the roof of the building and set the shops ablaze."
Despite the significant damage to the affected shops, Akinwande confirmed that no casualties were recorded in the incident. He further stated that the Fire Service was able to save properties worth billions of naira through their swift intervention.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about electrical safety in commercial areas and the importance of regular maintenance of electrical infrastructure to prevent such occurrences.
Shop owners in the complex and nearby facilities are advised to ensure proper safety measures are in place to minimize the risk of fire outbreaks.
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