Several properties worth millions of naira were destroyed in an early morning fire that gutted three shops at Ladipo Baale Roundabout Plank Market, Orile-Iganmu, Lagos, on Thursday.
According to Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the fire, which occurred around midnight, affected a section of the plank market. Fortunately, no deaths or injuries were reported.
Cause of the Fire
Investigations revealed that the fire started from a pile of planks due to a power surge. The flames spread quickly, affecting three other shops within the market.
Response and Containment
Dr. Oke-Osanyitolu highlighted the swift response of emergency services, which played a crucial role in containing the fire.
“Collaborative efforts of the responders were able to quickly bring the fire under control before it could spread to more shops,” he said.
A significant quantity of planks and other properties were salvaged by the responders during the operation. The response team included LASEMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and the Nigerian Police Force.
Preventive Measures
In addition to extinguishing the fire, the LASEMA Response Team and members of the Plank Market Association conducted public advocacy on preventive measures to avoid future incidents. This included educating the market community on safety practices and measures to mitigate fire risks.
The swift containment of the fire and the collaborative efforts of the emergency services prevented what could have been a far more devastating incident.
Dr. Oke-Osanyitolu’s statement underscores the importance of preparedness and prompt response in managing emergencies and protecting lives and properties.