Tragedy struck on Tuesday evening as a massive fire tore through sections of the popular Alaba International Market in Lagos, destroying several shops and warehouses filled with goods worth millions of naira.

Videos from the scene, including a live TikTok stream by user KB Clothings, showed thick plumes of black smoke rising over the market as distraught traders watched helplessly. Many broke down in tears as the flames consumed their investments, while others frantically tried to salvage what they could before the fire spread further.

Eyewitnesses said the blaze started in one of the locked sections of the market, quickly spreading to nearby stalls packed with electronics and household items. Some traders blamed market security for reacting too slowly, claiming valuable time was lost before help arrived.

Officials of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene and battled late into the evening to bring the inferno under control.

As the smoke cleared, the scale of destruction became visible—charred remains of goods, collapsed shop roofs, and devastated business owners left to count their losses.

The cause of the fire remains unclear as of press time, but investigations are expected to begin soon.

For many traders, Alaba is not just a marketplace—it’s their livelihood. Tuesday’s fire leaves behind stories of heartbreak, resilience, and a long road to recovery.