Properties worth millions of naira were destroyed on Friday night following a fire outbreak that gutted a residential duplex at Hazmat Street, Kuola off Akala Expressway, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The incident, which left the upper floor of the building severely damaged, also affected two adjoining bathroom flats. Thankfully, no life was lost.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, said firefighters responded promptly to the distress call and worked tirelessly to bring the situation under control. According to him, the quick intervention of firemen prevented the flames from spreading to the ground floor and nearby buildings.

Akinwande explained that the Oyo State Fire Service, in collaboration with the Federal Fire Service and Sweetco Fire Service, jointly extinguished the fire. He also praised the Kuola Divisional Police for providing adequate security for firefighters during the operation. “Our officers swung into action immediately, restricted the fire’s spread, and ensured the safety of residents,” he stated.

The cause of the fire was later traced to a lighted mosquito coil left unattended, which ignited nearby combustible materials, leading to the devastating inferno. Authorities have since urged residents to be more cautious with flammable items, especially at night.

No casualties were recorded, but officials confirmed that valuable household items and property worth millions were lost in the incident. The Oyo State Fire Service emphasized the need for fire safety awareness and regular maintenance of electrical and flammable materials to prevent similar occurrences.