The Lagos State Government has confirmed that no lives were lost following a fire outbreak on Wednesday that destroyed a cluster of makeshift residential structures at Abule-Oja, Yaba.
The incident, which occurred at 9/10 Abudu Street by UNILAG Road, triggered a swift multi-agency emergency response that successfully contained the blaze before it spread to adjoining buildings.
According to officials, responders were mobilised immediately after a distress call was received. Personnel from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, UNILAG Fire Service, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Nigeria Police Force, and Alpha Cobra Base jointly battled the inferno.
Authorities explained that the fire spread quickly due to the close proximity of the structures and the combustible materials used in their construction. However, responders prevented the flames from engulfing nearby properties, including a two-storey building, ensuring no casualties were recorded.
Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), stated that damping-down operations were ongoing to extinguish residual hotspots and secure the area. He added that a comprehensive damage assessment was underway, while relevant agencies had been mobilised to provide relief materials and humanitarian support to affected residents.
The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, but the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has commenced investigations in collaboration with other agencies. Findings will be made public upon completion.
The government commended emergency responders for their professionalism and residents for their cooperation during the operation. It also urged the public to adopt basic fire safety practices, including:
Avoiding substandard electrical wiring
Preventing the overloading of sockets
Installing fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in homes and businesses
Residents were further advised to report emergencies promptly via the state’s toll-free lines 767 and 112. The government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening emergency response capacity, enforcing safety standards, and safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State.
