From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A 73-year-old man, Pastor Awolola, lost his life on Monday after a fire he reportedly set on his property in Irewolede, Ilorin, quickly got out of control.
The incident occurred around 11:58am, where the fire engulfed undergrowth around an incomplete building with a fenced and gated perimeter.
According to a statement from the Kwara State Fire Service, the blaze spread so fast that it blocked the only exit from the premises. In a desperate bid to escape, Pastor Awolola attempted to climb through the fence, but the flames had already reached the area, resulting in his death.
Firefighters were on the scene shortly after the alert and successfully put out the fire, preventing it from spreading to neighbouring properties. The victim’s body was recovered and handed over to the Community Chairman, Mr. Sunday Nuha, for further action.
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CFS Alabi Muhammed, Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, expressed deep sadness over the tragedy. “This unfortunate incident is a painful reminder of the dangers of bush and undergrowth burning,” he said. “Such practices are unpredictable, especially during dry and windy conditions, and often lead to avoidable loss of lives and property. We urge residents to use safer land-clearing methods and report fires immediately.”
The Kwara State Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, calling on citizens to remain vigilant and cautious.
