On Wednesday, fire engulfed three buildings at the bustling intersection of Nnamdi Azikiwe and Docemo in the heart of Lagos Island, Lagos State, leaving devastation in their wake.
Videos circulating on social media platforms captured the intensity of the blaze, shared by concerned netizens alarmed by the unfolding disaster.
Confirming the incident, the state Fire and Rescue Service took to its official channels to provide updates, revealing that the fire had ravaged two two-storey structures and one three-storey building at the scene.
Prompt response teams were swiftly dispatched to the site, aiming to contain the inferno and prevent further escalation of the crisis.
In a statement issued by the Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, she declared, “The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has been alerted to a fire emergency at the intersection of Nnamdi Azikiwe and Docemo in Idumota, Lagos.”
Adeseye continued, “Upon arrival, it was discovered that the fire encompasses three buildings, including two 2-storey structures and one three-storey building. Currently, firefighting efforts are underway at the scene.”
She further assured the public that firefighting operations were in full swing, with resources mobilized from multiple fire stations across the vicinity, including Ebute Elefun, Ilupeju, and Alausa.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, Adeseye emphasized the importance of residents cooperating with emergency personnel and steering clear of the affected area for their safety.
The latest incident echoes past tragedies, serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of urban centers to such disasters. In January, the popular Mandilas building on Broad Street, Lagos Island, was engulfed in flames, resulting in substantial losses for countless traders and businesses. As communities grapple with the aftermath, authorities are urged to bolster preventive measures and enhance emergency response capabilities to mitigate future occurrences.