Livestock traders at Olusola Saraki Market in Ita-Nma, Ilorin, are reeling from a fire incident that occurred on Friday night, resulting in significant losses of animals and goods. The devastating fire destroyed over 15 shops, containing livestock like goats, rams, sheep, and chickens, as well as clothing materials, provisions, and beverages.
The fire, reportedly caused by a power surge due to unstable power supply, affected a total of 269 shops in the market. Firefighters swiftly responded to the distress call and managed to contain the blaze, minimizing the damage to only seven shops.
Livestock traders, who suffered the most from the disaster, are seeking government assistance to recover from the substantial losses incurred. The Vice Chairman of the Livestock Sellers Association, Alhaji Yakub Oloso, expressed desperation over the incident and called for aid from the government. Other affected traders also appealed for support, emphasizing the need for financial assistance to restart their businesses.
The cause of the fire remains unclear to the traders, adding to their distress. Local government officials, including the Chairman of Ilorin West Local Government Council, have visited the market to offer condolences and assure the affected traders of forthcoming assistance from the government.