A late-night fire outbreak has destroyed three containerised shops at Eyenkorin Roundabout in the Apata area of Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State, leaving business owners counting significant losses.
The incident occurred late Wednesday night when flames engulfed several small businesses located around the busy Eyenkorin Roundabout.
According to emergency officials, the Kwara State Fire Service received a distress call at about 11:57 p.m. and immediately deployed firefighters to the scene.
Firefighters Respond Quickly to Eyenkorin Fire
Fire service officials revealed that six containerised shops were involved in the incident, although only three were severely damaged by the fire before it was brought under control.
Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby shops and properties in the crowded commercial area.
Emergency responders managed to extinguish the flames by about 12:20 a.m., successfully limiting the scale of destruction and safeguarding surrounding structures.
Power Surge Identified as Cause of Kwara Fire
Preliminary investigations by fire authorities indicate that the Eyenkorin fire outbreak was triggered by a power surge shortly after electricity supply was restored to the area.
Officials explained that the sudden electrical surge ignited nearby combustible materials inside one of the containerised shops, causing the flames to spread rapidly to adjoining structures.
Fire Service Urges Electrical Safety Measures
Following the incident, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service advised residents and shop owners to prioritise electrical safety in their homes and business premises.
He encouraged business operators to ensure proper electrical wiring, quality electrical materials, and regular safety checks to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Authorities also recommended that shop owners install portable fire extinguishers and switch off electrical appliances when they are not in use.
Rising Fire Incidents in Kwara
The Eyenkorin incident adds to a growing number of fire outbreaks reported across Kwara State in recent months.
In a separate tragedy on February 27, a 52-year-old man died in a late-night fire that destroyed a short-let apartment building along Coca-Cola Road in Ilorin.
Emergency officials continue to warn residents that electrical faults and power surges remain a leading cause of fire outbreaks, urging stricter adherence to fire prevention and safety practices.
