A fallen 33-kilovolt electricity line triggered a fire that destroyed a vulcanising workshop, burnt a vehicle and damaged residential buildings and businesses in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, October 27, on Lawyer Lambo Street, Oloje Phase 2, in Ilorin West Local Government Area.
The Kwara State Fire Service said preliminary findings indicated that a concrete pole supporting the high-tension line collapsed, causing the cable to fall onto a vehicle.
According to the agency, a spark reportedly ignited the vehicle’s tyre before the flames spread to nearby properties.
Homes and Businesses Suffer Damage
The fire affected three residential buildings, a vulcanising workshop and an adjoining travel and tours office.
One vehicle was completely burnt, while two others parked in the same residential building were saved by firefighters.
The fire also damaged electrical appliances and a solar power system in another apartment. The neighbouring travel and tours office reportedly lost its solar equipment, four tubular batteries and other appliances.
Occupants of a self-contained apartment were rescued by community members as the fire spread.
The Kwara State Fire Service said it received a distress call and arrived at the scene at about 2:41 a.m.
Fallen Power Line Posed Danger to Firefighters
The fallen electricity cable created an additional hazard for emergency responders.
The fire service said it contacted the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) control room to request the shutdown of the electricity feeder serving the affected area.
The measure was necessary to reduce the risk of electrocution while firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
Chief Fire Officer Alabi Muhammed sympathised with residents and business owners affected by the incident.
He urged residents to report fallen electricity poles, damaged power infrastructure and exposed cables immediately.
He also warned the public against touching fallen wires or objects in contact with them.
Fire Service Warns Against Building Under High-Tension Lines
The fire service advised residents and property developers to observe safety setbacks around electricity infrastructure.
It warned that buildings and other structures erected too close to high-tension lines could expose people and property to electrical accidents and fire outbreaks.
The incident occurred less than 24 hours after another fire destroyed a building in Kangile Village, Ilorin South Local Government Area.
The fire service did not establish any connection between the two incidents.
The latest incident highlights the dangers of damaged electricity infrastructure and the importance of prompt reporting, proper maintenance and strict adherence to electrical safety guidelines.
Source: Kwara State Fire Service, as reported by Premium Times and other news outlets.
