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Fatal Fire in Ilorin’s Laduba Community Claims Three Young Lives
In a devastating incident on the evening of Saturday, January 17, 2026, a fire erupted at a multi-purpose building located at No. 1 Popo Street, near Ojere Junction in the Ogidi area of Ilorin, Kwara State. The blaze tragically resulted in the deaths of three children and caused significant damage to the property.
Details of the Incident and Emergency Response
The Kwara State Fire Service promptly responded to the emergency call at approximately 6:46 p.m. The affected structure was a two-story building comprising five rooms and six commercial shops. The fire primarily devastated three shops on the ground floor, leading to extensive destruction.
Cause of the Fire: Unsafe Storage of Petrol
According to Hassan Adekunle, the Public Relations Officer and Head of Media for the Fire Service, preliminary investigations revealed that the fire originated from the improper storage of about 50 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) inside one of the shops. A woman had purchased the petrol and kept it in the shop where her three children were asleep.
The ignition source was traced to sparks from a charcoal stove used by another woman in an adjacent shop. These sparks reached the petrol storage area, causing a sudden explosion followed by a rapid spread of fire.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The fire claimed the lives of three children: Abdulraman Jamiu Jeje, aged 8; Islamiya Abdulwahab, 17, who was the daughter of the shop owner; and Hadizah AbdulAzeez Raji, also 17 years old. A passerby who attempted to rescue the victims sustained injuries and was hospitalized prior to the arrival of the fire service.
The bodies of the deceased were recovered and handed over to the community chairman, Mr. Saadu Abdulrahim, for proper burial arrangements.
Official Statements and Safety Warnings
CFS Alabi Muhammed, Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, expressed profound grief over the loss and extended condolences to the families and the Laduba community. He described the tragedy as preventable and urged the public to exercise caution.
The Director emphasized the extreme volatility of petrol, warning against storing flammable liquids in residential or commercial spaces, especially near open flames or heat sources. He highlighted that even minimal heat or sparks can trigger explosive fires.
Residents were strongly advised to avoid domestic fuel storage, maintain safe distances between flammable substances and ignition sources, and report hazardous practices immediately to prevent similar disasters.
Commitment to Fire Safety and Public Awareness
The Kwara State Fire Service reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding lives and property through continuous public education and enforcement of fire safety regulations. Authorities call on all community members to adhere strictly to safety guidelines to avert future tragedies.
Contextual Insight
Incidents involving the unsafe storage of petrol remain a significant fire hazard in many Nigerian communities. According to the National Fire Safety Council, over 30% of urban fire outbreaks in 2025 were linked to improper handling of flammable liquids. This underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of safety protocols nationwide.
