AgroNigeria
Traders at the Olusola Saraki Market, Ita-Nma, Ilorin West Local Government, are lamenting massive losses following a fire outbreak on Friday night that destroyed over 15 shops and left livestock, provisions, and wares worth millions of naira reduced to ashes.
The inferno, which consumed livestock including goats, rams, sheep, and chickens, also destroyed clothing materials, provisions, and refrigerators stocked with mineral drinks. Vice Chairman of the Livestock Sellers Association, Alhaji Yakub Oloso, described the incident as devastating and called on the government for urgent assistance.
According to Oloso, “About 15 shops owned by our members were affected, and we lost many animals and goods. We appeal to Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq to assist us as many of our members need support to restart their businesses.”
Another trader, Saliu Kelebe, pleaded for financial aid, lamenting the heavy losses suffered by traders. A provision dealer, identified as Iya Abu, recounted how her three refrigerators and newly restocked goods were completely destroyed by the fire.
The Kwara State Fire Service reported that the fire was caused by a power surge due to fluctuating electricity supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
Despite quick intervention by firefighters, seven shops were severely affected, though 269 others were saved.
Chairman of Ilorin West Local Government, Babatunde Ladan, who visited the scene on Saturday, sympathized with the traders and assured them of government support.
“We understand the pain of the affected traders. I’m confident that His Excellency, Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, will provide the necessary assistance,” he stated.
Affected traders continue to appeal for immediate relief to help them recover from the disaster.