Fire razes 17 shops in Lagos market

A fire swept through Sabo Market in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State on Tuesday, destroying at least 17 shops. The inferno broke out around 1:10 a.m. and was successfully contained by emergency responders from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service. Preliminary investigations suggest an electrical surge caused the fire, which originated in one shop and spread to adjoining stalls. Provisions, groceries, foodstuffs, and other merchandise were destroyed in the affected section of the market. Fortunately, no lives were lost or injuries recorded. The timely response of emergency teams prevented the blaze from escalating and largely salvaged the remaining shops in the row and adjacent ones. Recovery operations have concluded. LASEMA officials urged market leaders, traders, and residents to prioritize electrical safety. They advised ensuring proper shop wiring, avoiding overloading appliances, and conducting regular inspections of electrical installations. Residents were also reminded to report emergencies promptly through the state's toll-free lines.

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The immediate cause is suspected to be an electrical surge, as the outbreak reportedly occurred while the power supply was active.