Recent fire outbreaks in Lagos and Plateau states have left a trail of destruction, affecting shops, offices, and shanties in different areas. The incidents, occurring within hours of each other, have raised concerns about fire safety measures and the readiness of emergency response teams.
Fire Ravages Shops at Alaba Rago in Lagos
In Lagos, a fire broke out at Alaba Rago in the Ojo area late Tuesday night, destroying several shanty shops. The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Damilola Oke-Osanyitolu, confirmed the incident in a statement, noting the quick response of emergency services that helped contain the blaze. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported.
The fire reportedly began around 10:23 pm, and distress calls prompted a swift response from LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire Service. Oke-Osanyitolu stated, “Emergency response teams were promptly deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, we found several shanty shops engulfed in flames. Thankfully, no casualties or injuries were reported.”
While permanent structures in the area were unaffected, the shanty shops were significantly damaged. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Emergency teams, including LASEMA’s Dolphin Response Team from Igando and the Lagos State Fire Service and Rescue Service, worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire. “The fire has been fully extinguished, and dampening down operations have been concluded. A post-disaster assessment was conducted to determine the extent of the damage,” Oke-Osanyitolu added.
Jos Fire Destroys Shops and Offices
In Jos, Plateau State, another fire outbreak caused significant destruction on Wednesday afternoon. The fire affected shops and offices in the area, with eyewitnesses reporting that it began around 4:00 pm. Prompt action by local fire services from Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas helped contain the blaze.
An eyewitness, John Michael, described the scene, saying, “I came out of my office and saw fire everywhere. I don’t know the actual cause, but I contacted the fire service, and they mobilized their people to quench the fire.”
The Chairman of Jos South Local Government Area, Mr. Silas Dung, also confirmed the incident, expressing concern over the destruction caused by the fire. “I have just been told of the fire, and I’m currently at the scene of the incident,” he said.
An official from the fire service, speaking anonymously, noted that their team was able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby areas. “We deployed our team immediately and successfully put out the fire,” the official said.
Past Fire Incidents in Jos Raise Concerns
The latest fire in Jos comes just weeks after a devastating fire at a timber market in the Katato community of Jos North Local Government Area. That incident affected over 200 people, primarily carpenters, destroying 107 shops and goods worth over N1 billion. The recurrence of fire incidents has heightened concerns about fire safety in the state.
Need for Preventive Measures
The back-to-back fire incidents highlight the urgent need for improved fire safety measures and public awareness. Experts have called for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, particularly in markets and densely populated areas. Local authorities are also being urged to ensure that fire services are well-equipped and adequately funded to handle emergencies effectively.
While emergency response teams in both Lagos and Jos were able to contain the fires and prevent further damage, the recurring nature of such incidents underscores the importance of proactive measures. Improved fire safety protocols, regular inspections, and public education campaigns could go a long way in preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Moving Forward
As investigations into the causes of both fires continue, residents and business owners are encouraged to take precautionary steps to minimize fire risks. This includes proper storage of flammable materials, installation of fire extinguishers, and ensuring that electrical wiring and appliances are in good condition.
Authorities in Lagos and Plateau states must also intensify efforts to address underlying issues contributing to fire outbreaks, such as poor urban planning and inadequate fire safety infrastructure. By doing so, they can help safeguard lives and property and restore public confidence in emergency response systems.
