The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has attributed the cause of Wednesday’s fire outbreak that engulfed three buildings in the Idumota area of the state to ‘negligence’.
RECALL that THE WHISTLER earlier reported that three buildings in Idumota were on fire.
The affected buildings include a two-storey structure and one three-storey building. The properties were identified as house numbers 47, 49, and 51. The fire later spread to house 53.
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While emergency responders were trying to bring the fire under control, one of the buildings collapsed.
According to the state’s fire service, the building collapse was due to the “fire’s intensity and the close proximity of buildings”.
The agency stated that the fire emanated from poor housekeeping practices within a firecracker storage facility at house number 49, Docemo Street.
It was, however, brought under control at 16:05 p.m.
“The diligent efforts of emergency responders, spearheaded by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, have resulted in the successful containment of a fire outbreak in the Idunmota area. At approximately 16:05 hours, the blaze, which originated from poor housekeeping practices within a firecracker storage facility at #49 Docemo Street, was brought under control.
“The root cause of the fire has been determined to be negligence, compounded by the presence of combustible materials within the vicinity. The fire quickly spread to neighboring properties, including houses #47 and #51, where various goods such as decorations and lighters were stored. Prompt action by firefighting teams prevented further escalation and facilitated the extinguishing of the flames,” the Director of the agency, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, said in a statement.
She noted that the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies, including the Federal Fire Service, Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Fire Service, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Nigeria Police Force, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), CBD Men, and Julius Berger, played a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the situation.
“Challenges such as crowd control and the safe evacuation of traders were effectively managed, ensuring minimal disruption and safeguarding lives and property.
“Thankfully, there have been no reported casualties as a result of the incident. However, ongoing efforts are focused on dampening down remaining hotspots and assessing the structural integrity of affected buildings. Regrettably, house #49 has collapsed, as previously reported.
“The collaborative response to this incident exemplifies the resilience and professionalism of emergency responders in Lagos State. We extend our gratitude to all involved parties for their swift and coordinated efforts,” Adeseye added.