Ajegunle, Lagos – An early morning blaze tore through eleven shops at the Alayabiagba Boundary Market in Ajegunle, Lagos, on Wednesday, leaving behind extensive losses estimated in the millions of naira. The fire originated from a gas retailer’s shop, according to reports from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).
Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the agency’s Permanent Secretary, disclosed that the disaster began with a gas leak in one of the numerous cylinders stored at the shop. The leaked gas ignited, setting off an explosion that sent flames racing through neighboring shops. The destruction was swift and overwhelming, leaving traders and shop owners grappling with the aftermath.
The distress call reached LASEMA at precisely 9:20 AM through the 767/112 Toll-Free Emergency lines. Within 17 minutes, the agency’s Eagle response team was at the scene, joined by firefighters who worked tirelessly to bring the raging fire under control. By acting promptly, they managed to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby residential buildings, averting what could have been a far greater disaster.
The market, located in one of Lagos’ bustling commercial hubs, was reduced to chaos as plumes of smoke darkened the sky and traders scrambled to salvage their goods. Many shop owners expressed despair at the loss of their livelihoods, lamenting the destruction of years of hard work and investment.
As investigations continue to uncover the precise sequence of events leading to the explosion, experts have reiterated the risks associated with improper handling and storage of flammable materials. Gas cylinders, often kept in densely populated areas like Alayabiagba, pose a significant hazard when safety protocols are ignored.
Authorities have urged business owners, particularly those dealing in hazardous substances, to comply with safety guidelines. This includes regular inspection of equipment, adequate ventilation, and the enforcement of zoning regulations to separate flammable goods from other market activities.
While the quick response by LASEMA and firefighters limited the scale of destruction, the incident serves as a wake-up call. Stricter oversight, better public awareness, and adherence to safety standards are crucial to preventing such tragedies in the future.
