A devastating fire broke out at Akinola Market in Ipetumodu, Osun State, on the night of Friday, January 10, 2025, causing significant destruction in the section of the market where yams and other foodstuffs were stored. The fire reportedly destroyed properties and goods worth millions of naira.

Trader’s Account

A trader, who preferred to remain anonymous for security reasons, shared that the fire affected stalls where tubers of yam were stored. “I was called late on Friday. I had left the market about four hours earlier. The part affected is the stalls where yam sellers usually keep their produce,” the trader explained.

The trader added that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was contacted, and operatives responded promptly, but the destruction was already extensive.

Preliminary Findings

The Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Kehinde Adeleke, attributed the fire to negligence related to refuse burning. According to Adeleke, “Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire started from refuse set ablaze by yet-to-be-identified individuals after the close of business on Friday.”

Akinola Market, a popular weekly market held every Friday, had concluded its trading activities earlier in the day. Traders reportedly collected refuse for burning but left the fire unextinguished, leading to the inferno.

NSCDC Response

Adeleke confirmed the NSCDC’s swift response after receiving a distress call. “Upon receiving a distress call, we immediately deployed operatives to the scene,” he stated. However, by the time help arrived, the fire had already spread, leaving a trail of destruction.

Extent of Damage

The affected section of the market, primarily used for storing yams and other foodstuffs, suffered significant losses. Properties and foodstuffs valued at millions of naira were destroyed, dealing a heavy blow to traders who rely on the market for their livelihoods.

Need for Precautionary Measures

This incident highlights the dangers of improper refuse disposal and negligence in markets. Authorities are urged to implement stricter measures to prevent similar occurrences, including public education campaigns on safe waste disposal practices and the installation of fire safety equipment in markets.

As investigations continue, the NSCDC has assured the public of its commitment to identifying those responsible and taking appropriate actions to prevent future incidents.