Fire Guts Parts of Ilorin Phone Market

A late-night fire on Wednesday ravaged parts of the popular Challenge Phone Village in Ilorin, Kwara State, destroying goods worth millions of naira and leaving affected traders in anguish.

The inferno, which occurred around 9:06pm on April 30, was attributed to a power surge. It destroyed about 10 kiosks within the bustling phone market, which hosts more than 120 shops and 80 kiosks.

The spokesperson of the Kwara State Fire Service, PFO Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, confirmed the incident and said the fire was swiftly curtailed following a prompt distress call.

“The timely intervention of our men prevented what could have been a more devastating situation,” he said.

Director of the Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, who visited the scene, commiserated with affected traders and praised his team’s quick response.

“We thank God our men managed the situation effectively. I sympathise with all victims and pray that their losses will be replenished,” he stated.

Some traders expressed appreciation to the fire service, noting that their professionalism prevented greater damage to the market.

The fire service urged business owners and residents to remain vigilant and to report emergencies without delay through 08030419316, 112, or 08025896740.

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