In the early hours of Wednesday morning, tragedy struck the bustling Ladipo Plank Market in Amukoko, Lagos State, as a devastating fire engulfed the area, resulting in the destruction of several goods and properties valued at millions of naira. The incident, which occurred at around 12:30 am, has left the market in a state of shock and devastation.
According to Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA), no casualties or loss of life have been reported.
According to Oke-Osanyitolu, “The agency responded to distress calls and arrived at the above scene of the incident to discover that the plank market was being gutted by fire.
“Fortunately, there is no loss of life. However, goods and property yet to be enumerated have been destroyed due to the inferno.”
LASEMA, alongside the Lagos State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, swiftly mobilized to the scene. As of 6 am, the combined forces were still tirelessly battling the ferocious flames, with ongoing rescue operations aimed at minimizing further damage and ensuring the safety of those affected.
The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the blaze originated within the main market, although specific details regarding the ignition source are yet to be determined.
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Local authorities are actively engaged in managing the situation and providing support to the affected traders and residents.