From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A power surge has been identified as the cause of a fire outbreak that damaged one apartment at Elemosho Villa in the Olumilade area of Ilorin, while the prompt intervention of the Kwara State Fire Service, prevented the blaze from spreading to other parts of the residential building.
The incident occurred at about 10:34 a.m. on Wednesday at the housing complex opposite Super Moon Filling Station. Firefighters arrived quickly at the scene and successfully brought the fire under control by 11:05 a.m.
The affected building comprises four room-and-parlour self-contained apartments, but only one apartment was damaged in the incident, while the remaining three apartments and nearby properties were saved from destruction.
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According to the Kwara State Fire Service, preliminary investigations revealed that the fire started after a power surge ignited combustible materials inside the affected apartment.
Reacting to the incident, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Chief Fire Superintendent Alabi Muhammed, called on residents to prioritise electrical safety to prevent similar incidents.
He said, “Residents should ensure the installation of surge protection devices and use only standard electrical wiring and fittings in their homes. They should also avoid overloading electrical circuits, carry out routine maintenance of electrical installations and promptly alert the Fire Service whenever a fire outbreak occurs, as early intervention greatly reduces damage.”
The Fire Service reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kwara State through prompt emergency response and continuous public enlightenment on fire prevention and safety.
