Power Surge Triggers Fire in Ilorin, Kwara Fire Service Raises Safety Concerns

Quick response contained blaze at Pakata as authorities warn against unsafe electrical installations

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By Ayo Bankole | Ilorin, Kwara State

A fire outbreak at Pakata area of Ilorin, Kwara State, has been linked to a suspected power surge, with the Kwara State Fire Service confirming that swift intervention by its operatives prevented the incident from escalating into a major disaster.

The incident has once again raised concerns over electrical safety practices in residential and commercial buildings across the state.

The fire reportedly occurred on Saturday at about 11:09 a.m. at No. 61, Ita-Ogunbo area, Pakata Road, Ilorin, involving a building housing eight rooms and five shops.

According to the Fire Service, only one shop was affected as firefighters arrived promptly and contained the blaze before it could spread to adjoining structures.

Preliminary Findings Point to Electrical Fault
In a statement issued by the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Hassan Adekunle, preliminary investigations indicated that a sudden power surge ignited combustible materials within the affected shop.

The agency noted that unstable electricity supply remains a recurring trigger for fire incidents in urban centres.

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Safety Warnings and Public Advisory
The Director of the Fire Service, Alabi Muhammed, urged residents and business owners to adopt safer electrical practices, including the use of standard wiring, surge protectors, and regulated power usage.

He also emphasised the importance of installing portable fire extinguishers in homes and commercial spaces to enable early containment of fire outbreaks.

Pattern of Preventable Fire Risks
Emergency officials say many fire incidents in the state are linked to avoidable causes such as power fluctuations, poor wiring, and lack of safety equipment.

Authorities warn that without stricter compliance with safety standards, similar incidents may continue to threaten lives and property.

While the swift response of firefighters limited the damage in Pakata, the incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in electrical safety management across residential and commercial buildings in Ilorin.

The Fire Service has reaffirmed its commitment to rapid emergency response while urging the public to prioritise prevention over reaction.