A fire breakout has destroyed shanties in the well-known Alaba International Market in Ojo, Lagos state destroying assets worth millions of naira.
However, for unknown reasons, it was claimed that crowds stopped emergency personnel from entering the location to put out the fire.
Confirming the incident, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Magret Adeseye said;
“Report reaching Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service at about 12 noon on Friday indicates shops at the popular Alaba International Market, Ojo, Lagos are on fire. However, fire crew from Ojo, Sari-Iganmu and Ajegunle are being turned back by angry mobs from performing their statutory duty but presently on standby. The agency is consequently collaborating with security agents to address it.”
Alaba International Market in Lagos is a major electronics and spare parts trading center, known for its dense crowds and well-packed stalls.
The incident has left traders and shop owners at the market in distress as their livelihoods have been severely affected.
The extent of the damage caused by the fire outbreak has yet to be determined.
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