Cynthia Ezegwu
The Federal Fire Service, Oyo State Command, has condemned the indiscriminate construction of shops in marketplaces, warning that such practices hinder effective responses to fire outbreaks and other emergencies across the state.
The warning was issued on Monday by the Zonal Commander for Oyo and Osun States, Olojo Ayodeji, during the flag-off of the 2025 National Fire Safety Week in Ibadan. The programme carried the theme: “Building the Culture of Fire Safety Across Nigeria: Overcoming the ‘Not My Portion’ Mentality.”
Ayodeji noted that devastating fire incidents often occur in markets due to the presence of highly combustible materials, which can fuel and spread fires quickly. He emphasised that illegal structures obstruct emergency access, making it difficult for fire responders to act promptly.
“These illegal structures obstruct easy passage during emergencies. If proper structures are erected and safety measures are followed, it will greatly reduce the difficulties in responding to fire emergencies in markets and other places,” he said.
The zonal commander explained that the National Fire Safety Week is held annually, particularly during the dry season when fire incidents are most frequent. During the programme, the service plans to sensitise the public on fire safety in markets, schools, offices, and other locations.
READ ALSO: Oyo Fire Service Averts Tanker Explosion on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
In a lecture delivered during the event, Superintendent of Fire Oke Ayodeji attributed 80 per cent of fire incidents in Nigeria to negligence and careless attitudes, urging citizens to abandon the “not my portion” mentality. He stressed the importance of proactive behaviour in reducing fire outbreaks.
Additionally, the Controller of the Federal Fire Service, Oyo State Command, Adeyemo Ariyo, said the service would continue efforts to educate the public on preventing and mitigating fire incidents across the state.
The programme was attended by representatives from several agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Nigeria Customs Service.