From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A rescue mission by the Kwara State Fire Service, turned chaotic on Friday, when its firefighters were attacked by a mob while responding to a fire incident involving a Ministry of Environment bus at the Adeta Roundabout in Ilorin.
According to a statement by Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity for the Fire Service, the team was deployed immediately after a distress call was received. However, on arriving at the scene, the operation was interrupted by an unexpected mob assault.
“Our men were attacked without any provocation. This not only disrupted our operations but also led to the damage of our fire truck’s windshield,” the statement read. “Thankfully, no personnel was injured.”
Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa, condemned the attack, describing it as a threat to public safety and a setback for emergency response efforts.
“This kind of hostility towards those who risk their lives to protect others is unacceptable,” he said. “We call on all residents to support emergency workers instead of obstructing them. Everyone must remain law-abiding and allow us do our work.”
He assured the public that the Fire Service remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state and called for increased cooperation during emergencies.
The motive behind the mob action remains unclear at the time of filing this report.
