PICTORIAL: Fire guts makeshift structures in Lagos

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is investigating a fire that ravaged a cluster of makeshift residential structures in Abule Oja, Yaba. The blaze occurred on the night of Tuesday, July 9, 2026, at 9/10 Abudu Street, near UNILAG Road.

Emergency responders, including teams from LASEMA, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, UNILAG Fire Service, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force, were deployed promptly. Their swift and coordinated efforts were crucial in controlling the fire, which spread rapidly due to the combustible nature of the affected structures.

Despite the intensity of the fire, officials confirmed that no lives were lost. The responders successfully salvaged an adjacent two-story building, preventing further escalation. Following the main firefighting efforts, damping-down operations were conducted to extinguish any remaining hotspots and ensure the area's safety.

LASEMA's Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, commended the professionalism of the emergency personnel and the cooperation of residents. He urged the public to adhere to fire safety measures, such as proper electrical wiring and the use of fire safety equipment. A comprehensive damage assessment is ongoing, and relief materials are being mobilized for those affected. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service is leading the investigation to determine the fire's cause.

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Through the diligence and courage of our emergency personnel, the adjoining two-storey building was successfully salvaged and, most importantly, no loss of life was recorded.