A massive fire broke out on Tuesday evening at sections of the Alaba International Market in Lagos, destroying several shops and causing panic among traders.

A live stream shared on TikTok by user KB Clothings captured thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky as distraught traders watched helplessly.

Many wept over their lost goods, while others made frantic efforts to salvage what they could before the flames intensified.

Personnel from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service arrived at the scene and worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control.

According to eyewitnesses, the blaze consumed multiple locked shops and warehouses, with some traders blaming market security officials for a delayed response when the incident began.