In the early hours of Monday, a fire ripped through Bodija market in Ibadan, Oyo State, destroying merchandise estimated at several million naira. The blaze affected fifteen of the forty‑four shops that line the market, but fortunately no casualties were recorded.
**What caused the fire?**
The Oyo State Fire Service, led by Chairman Maroof Akinwande, said the incident was triggered by an electrical surge that ignited the premises. Upon receiving the alarm, fire crews were dispatched immediately to the scene.
**How extensive was the damage?**
According to the fire service’s statement, the flames and thick smoke quickly spread across the fifteen shops, completely consuming the goods inside. The loss is described as “goods worth millions of naira,” though an exact monetary figure was not disclosed.
**What was the official response?**
Akinwande told DAILY POST, “On arrival, the crew discovered that 15 out of a row of 44 shops had been engulfed by flames and thick smoke billowing from the affected premises. No casualty was recorded. The fire incident was as a result of electrical surge.” The fire service’s rapid mobilisation helped prevent the blaze from spreading further.
**Background on the location**
[Bodija market](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodija_market) is one of Ibadan’s busiest commercial hubs, hosting a variety of traders who sell everything from foodstuffs to textiles. The market’s dense layout can make fire containment challenging, underscoring the importance of swift emergency response.
**What steps are being taken next?**
The Oyo State Fire Service has urged shop owners to inspect electrical installations and adhere to safety standards to avoid similar incidents. Authorities are also assessing the extent of the financial loss and exploring possible compensation mechanisms for affected traders.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of densely packed market areas to electrical faults and the critical role of emergency services in mitigating damage.
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*For further details, refer to the official statement released by the [Oyo State Fire Service](https://fire.oyostate.gov.ng).*