A late-night fire outbreak on Monday threatened to destroy the Ipata Oloje Market in Ilorin, Kwara State, but swift action by the Kwara State Fire Service prevented what could have been a major disaster.

The incident, which started around 8:05 pm, affected the section of the market where about 178 mechanic workshops are located.

According to the Fire Service spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, the blaze was triggered by an unknown person who set refuse on fire. The flames quickly spread to nearby combustible materials, escalating the situation.

Fortunately, firefighters arrived in time to contain the spread and protect other shops and adjoining structures.

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service condemned the reckless act of burning refuse in and around markets, stressing that such negligence puts lives and properties at great risk. He urged residents to embrace safer waste disposal methods to prevent future disasters.