7th April, 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
A major fire incident was narrowly averted on Sunday night in Ilorin after a heap of plastic materials caught fire at the Alagbede Tipper Garage, Ita Alamu area, threatening dozens of parked trucks.
The fire, which started around 10:39 pm on April 6, was swiftly curtailed by the Kwara State Fire Service, preventing what could have been a significant loss of property.
According to a statement signed by the Head of Media and Publicity, PFO Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, firefighters responded promptly after receiving a distress call and arrived to find flames consuming a large pile of plastic waste meant for recycling.
“The fire was dangerously close to over 45 parked trucks,” the statement said. “Our firemen worked relentlessly to stop the spread and succeeded in containing the fire before it reached the vehicles.”
Preliminary reports indicated that security personnel in the area heard a loud blast shortly before the fire outbreak, though the cause of the explosion is yet to be confirmed.
Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, called on residents to take fire safety more seriously, especially in areas where flammable materials are stored.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and avoid acts that can trigger fire incidents,” he said. “The safety of lives and property is a shared responsibility.”
The Kwara Fire Service reiterated its commitment to rapid response and public education to reduce fire risks across the state.
