A devastating fire swept through the Idumota Under Bridge market in Lagos on Friday night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The fire, which broke out around 10 PM, ravaged several shops dealing in automobile spare parts, resulting in the loss of properties and goods valued at hundreds of millions of naira. Witnesses described the inferno as fierce, with thick plumes of smoke and flames lighting up the night sky.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed the incident, noting that emergency responders, including firefighters and other support agencies, were deployed promptly to contain the situation. Their swift intervention prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings, a development that could have exacerbated the already grim situation.
Despite the extensive damage, no casualties were reported. Traders, however, are in anguish, recounting their losses as many saw years of investment reduced to ashes in a matter of hours. One shop owner lamented, “I’ve lost everything. This fire has taken away my livelihood.” Another expressed frustration over the lack of fire prevention measures in the market, pointing to the absence of functional fire extinguishers and other basic safety infrastructure.
While the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, preliminary investigations suggest it might have been triggered by an electrical fault. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service is collaborating with LASEMA and local authorities to ascertain the root cause and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
Recovery efforts have commenced, with traders combing through the rubble in search of salvageable items. Market leaders are appealing to the government for support, including financial aid and the reconstruction of affected shops.
The Idumota market, one of Lagos's busiest commercial hubs, has long been a critical center for trade, particularly in automobile spare parts. This tragedy highlights the recurring challenges of fire outbreaks in Nigerian markets, often attributed to poor infrastructure, overcrowding, and inadequate safety measures. Traders and stakeholders are now calling for urgent reforms to safeguard livelihoods and prevent similar disasters in thee future.
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