A fallen electricity line has sparked a fire that damaged three buildings, destroyed a vulcanising workshop and burnt a vehicle in Oloje Phase 2, Ilorin, Kwara State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday on Lawyer Lambo Street, Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State.
A concrete pole supporting a 33kV transmission line reportedly collapsed which led to the inferno.
Occupants of a room-and-parlour apartment, including a family that recently welcomed a newborn baby, were rescued by residents as the fire spread to nearby properties.
Three vehicles were parked in one of the affected four-bedroom flats when the fire broke out.
While one was completely burnt, firefighters prevented the flames from destroying the other two, it was gathered.
The fire also damaged the kitchen of another four-bedroom flat, affecting a freezer, other electrical appliances and the building’s solar power system.
An adjoining travel and tours office was not spared, as its solar power system, four tubular batteries and other electrical appliances were damaged.
A nearby vulcanising workshop was completely destroyed after the fallen transmission line landed on it and the vehicle that was subsequently burnt.
The fallen line reportedly generated sparks that ignited the vehicle’s tyre, causing the fire to spread rapidly across the affected properties.
Residents said Firefighters arrived at the scene at about 2:41am and contacted the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to disconnect power to the affected area because of the danger posed by the fallen line.
The Chief Fire Officer, Alabi Muhammed, confirmed the incident.
He urged residents and property developers to observe the required safety setbacks around transmission lines to reduce the risks of fire outbreaks, electrocution and property damage.
He also advised residents to report fallen electricity poles, damaged infrastructure and exposed wires to the relevant authorities immediately.
Muhammed warned them against touching fallen cables or objects in contact with them.
The fire service commended residents who helped rescue the occupants of the affected apartment.
UPDATE NEWS:
Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.