A significant fire outbreak on Monday resulted in the destruction of eight commercial shops located adjacent to the Sango Divisional Police Station in Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident, which occurred on December 31, 2025, led to substantial property loss estimated to be worth millions of naira.
Coordinated Firefighting Response
The Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, officially confirmed the details of the event. In a statement released to journalists, Akinwande reported that firefighters arrived to find eight out of a total of 84 shops at the location completely engulfed in flames.
The firefighting operation was a joint effort involving personnel from the Oyo State Fire Service and their counterparts from the Federal Fire Service, Ibadan Command. Their prompt and coordinated attack on the blaze was crucial in preventing a more extensive disaster.
Property Lost, Lives Spared
While the financial impact of the fire is severe, authorities confirmed a silver lining: no lives were lost in the incident. The primary damage was confined to property and goods within the affected shops.
Akinwande emphasized the effectiveness of the emergency response, stating that firemen successfully restricted the fire from spreading to the numerous other shops in the vicinity. Their actions prevented what could have been a far more catastrophic event for the local business community.
Cause and Aftermath
The exact cause of the fire that razed the shops near the Sango police station is yet to be officially determined. Investigations are likely ongoing to ascertain the origin of the blaze. The incident underscores the ever-present risk of fire outbreaks in commercial areas and highlights the importance of robust emergency services.
The loss of millions of naira worth of property represents a significant blow to the shop owners, many of whom are small-scale traders. The community is now left to assess the full extent of the damage and begin the process of recovery.
