KEY POINTS
- A fire destroyed several shops at the Lagos spare parts market.
- Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the blaze.
- Local traders are facing significant losses due to the fire’s destruction.
A devastating fire has destroyed several shops at the Lagos spare parts market, leaving many traders in shock. The fire began in the early hours of Thursday morning and quickly spread across the densely packed market in the Amuwo-Odofin area.
Local witnesses describe scenes of chaos as the fire gutted a large portion of the market, home to hundreds of traders who rely on it as their primary source of income. The market, one of the busiest in Lagos, sells a variety of auto parts and related goods. Many traders lost large quantities of inventory in the blaze.
“I have lost everything,” said one trader, visibly distraught as she surveyed the charred remains of her shop. “This was my livelihood, and now it’s gone.”
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service responded quickly to the fire, managing to contain the inferno after several hours of battling the flames. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, though the economic fallout for traders is expected to be significant.
Authorities investigate cause of the blaze
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that an electrical fault or a spark from nearby welding operations may have triggered the blaze. Local officials have vowed to support affected traders and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Lagos State government has promised aid for those whose shops were destroyed, and the local fire department is continuing to assess the damage. While the market is known for its chaotic structure, many traders hope the disaster will lead to improvements in safety standards for markets across Lagos.
