A devastating fire broke out at the Akere Spare Parts Market in Ajegunle, Lagos, during the early hours of the morning, destroying goods worth millions of naira. The incident, which occurred around 3:28 a.m., led to significant losses for traders and the tragic death of a 65-year-old security guard. Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, rushed to the scene to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings, such as a filling station storing a large quantity of petrol .
According to Margaret Adeseye, the Director of the Lagos State Fire Service, multiple fire crews collaborated to bring the fire under control. Despite their efforts, several rows of shops were completely destroyed. In addition to the structural and financial damages, the lifeless body of the security guard was discovered near the scene, and authorities have reported that he was shot before the fire started, raising suspicions of foul play .
The Lagos State Police have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the security guard’s death. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the guard’s identity and stated that his body had been transported to the mortuary. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigators are exploring whether the fire was an accident or an intentional act .
This incident is the latest in a series of fires that have plagued Lagos markets, raising questions about safety measures and the vulnerability of such trading hubs. Traders and residents have expressed frustration, calling for better security and fire prevention strategies to protect their livelihoods. The incident underscores the precarious situation faced by market traders in Lagos, where fires often lead to significant economic and personal losses .
Authorities, including the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps and the Nigerian Red Cross, were also on the scene to provide support and assistance to affected traders. They emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols to mitigate the risks of fire outbreaks in densely packed commercial areas .
As investigations continue, the Lagos State Government and market stakeholders are expected to address the underlying issues contributing to frequent market fires. Enhanced security, fire prevention measures, and awareness campaigns could help reduce such incidents and protect traders from devastating losses in the future .
