No fewer than five fire incidents occurred in some parts of Kwara State in the month of December 2024 as a result of bush burning.
LEADERSHIP learnt that bush-burning-induced fire outbreaks occurred in Ilorin, the state capital, Omu—Aran in Irepodun local government, and Igosun in Oyun local government, rendering many residents homeless and deprived others of their sources of livelihood.
On December 12, 2024, a fire outbreak at Igosun in Oyun local government area occurred from an undergrowth burning.
Similarly, on December 15, 2024 there was a fire incident at Ganiki, Sango area, Ilorin, also caused by bush burning.
A fire incident at Balogun, Oke-Odo, Tanke area, Ilorin on 17th December 2024 destroyed an abandoned hostel comprising six self-contained rooms and three single-room apartments.
Also on December 17, 2024 there was another fire outbreak behind Kwara Hotel, GRA, Ilorin and it was ignited by an undergrowth which was set on fire by unknown person.
On the same date, a fire outbreak was also recorded at Landmark University, Omu-Aran, in the Irepodun local government area of the state.
It was gathered that an undergrowth fire broke out within the university’s grounds leading to a fire outbreak.
The spokesman of the State Fire Service, Hakeem Adekunle confirmed the five fire incidents that occurred in various parts of the state due to bush burning.
He appealed to the people of the state to stop bush burning, noting that, ” this reckless behaviour has far-reaching consequences.”
” The Kwara State Fire Service is calling on all Kwarans to immediately stop the dangerous and destructive practice of bush burning. This reckless act has led to several fire outbreaks across the state, causing damage to properties and posing serious threats to lives and the environment.
” We urge all monarchs, village heads, and community leaders to take responsibility by educating their people on the dangers of bush burning and its devastating consequences. Preventing these incidents is a collective duty that begins with awareness and action.”
