A major fire outbreak in the Ketu-Ikosi area of Lagos State has left two firefighters receiving medical treatment after they collapsed while battling the flames.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed the incident in a statement released by its spokesperson, Olawale Afolabi, revealing that emergency services were alerted to the fire at approximately 6:31 a.m. on Sunday.
Electrical Surge Suspected as Cause of Fire
According to LASEMA, the fire affected the top floor of one of two adjoining three-storey residential buildings located on Ademola Taiwo Street, Ketu-Ikosi.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the blaze was triggered by an electrical surge from a prepaid electricity meter installed on the building’s balcony. The fire quickly spread to the upper floor before emergency responders arrived.
Emergency Teams Prevent Wider Disaster
Personnel from LASEMA’s Tiger Squad and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service responded rapidly to the emergency.
Their coordinated efforts successfully brought the fire under control, preventing it from spreading to the neighbouring building and nearby properties.
Authorities said the swift intervention helped avert a much larger disaster in the densely populated area.
Two Firefighters Collapse During Rescue Operation
While working to extinguish the blaze, two firefighters collapsed due to the intensity of the operation.
Emergency responders immediately evacuated both officers to the Trauma Centre using a LASEMA ambulance and another emergency response vehicle.
Officials confirmed that the firefighters are currently in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical care.
No Casualties Recorded
Despite the extent of the fire, no residents were injured and no fatalities were reported.
LASEMA also disclosed that firefighters continued dampening-down operations to eliminate remaining hotspots and reduce the risk of the fire reigniting.
Recovery teams are also assessing the structural condition of the affected building and evaluating the overall damage caused by the incident.
LASEMA Urges Residents to Prioritise Electrical Safety
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, advised Lagos residents to regularly inspect electrical installations, including prepaid meters, electrical wiring, and household appliances, to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
He also encouraged members of the public to remain calm during emergencies, cooperate with rescue officials, and immediately report emergencies through the state’s toll-free emergency numbers 112 and 767.
LASEMA praised both its Tiger Squad and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service for their professionalism and swift response, noting that their efforts prevented significant property losses and protected lives.
