A fire outbreak has destroyed six shops and goods valued at millions of naira at the popular Owode Market in Offa, Kwara State.
The incident happened on Wednesday after a bush fire reportedly spread to sections of the market located in the Isale Oja area of the town.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Fire Service in Kwara State, DSF Jimoh Modibbo Ibrahim. The statement was made available to journalists in Ilorin.
According to the statement, firefighters from the Offa Command responded quickly to the emergency following a directive from the Area Commander, SF Ali Sikiru.
“The Federal Fire Service, Kwara State Command, under the leadership of the State Controller, ACF Mary Bakare, through its Offa Command and under the directive of the Area Commander, SF Ali Sikiru, on March 11, 2026, promptly responded to a fire at Owode Market, Isale Oja, Offa, Kwara State,” the statement read.
Ibrahim said the firefighting team, led by ASF II Adedeji, arrived at the market and managed to control the flames before they could spread further.
“Upon arrival at the scene, the firefighting crew swiftly brought the fire under control using one medium jet of water deployed from FFS 293. Comprehensive overhauling operations were subsequently carried out to prevent any possible re-ignition,” Ibrahim said.
Preliminary findings indicated that the blaze started from bush burning and later spread to shops within the market.
Although no life was lost, the fire destroyed six shops and a large hall that contained several food items. These included rice, beans, soya beans, yams and potatoes. The flames also damaged wheelbarrows and planks meant for building work.
Ibrahim said the estimated value of the damaged property stood at about N15 million. He added that firefighters saved goods and structures worth about N45 million due to their quick response.
“The estimated value of property damaged is N15m, while properties worth N45m were successfully saved due to the swift intervention of firefighters from the Federal Fire Service, Kwara State Command,” he noted.
The command urged residents to avoid uncontrolled bush burning and to follow safety measures that can help prevent fire incidents.
“The command reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and urges members of the public to observe standard fire safety precautions. Residents are particularly advised to avoid uncontrolled bush burning, ensure proper maintenance of electrical appliances and adhere to other essential fire safety measures,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, a similar incident occurred in January when an early morning fire affected parts of the livestock section of Owode Market. The blaze destroyed at least ten stalls and caused panic among traders and residents who tried to stop the fire from spreading to other parts of the market.
