A late-night fire outbreak has gutted three shops in Oyo town, destroying goods and properties worth millions of naira and leaving affected traders counting their losses.
The incident occurred in the Akesan market area around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, sending panic through the commercial neighborhood as flames engulfed the row of shops before help could arrive.
Eyewitnesses said the fire started from one of the locked shops, believed to have suffered an electrical fault, before spreading rapidly to adjoining structures.
“We heard a loud spark and within minutes, fire had taken over the entire section,” said Adebayo Kareem, a night guard who witnessed the incident. “By the time firefighters arrived, most of the damage had already been done.”
The Oyo State Fire Service confirmed the incident, stating that their team responded promptly but was hindered by the narrow access roads and lack of fire hydrants in the area.
“We were able to prevent the fire from spreading further, but unfortunately, three shops were completely razed,” said Fire Officer Samuel Oladipo.
No lives were lost, but the affected shop owners, mostly dealers in electronics and household items, have appealed to the state government for urgent support.
Local authorities, including the Oyo East Local Government chairman, have visited the scene and assured victims of government intervention.
The incident has renewed concerns over fire safety in markets across the state, with calls for better urban planning, installation of fire extinguishers in business areas, and regular inspection of electrical installations.
