The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, has successfully contained a fire outbreak at No. 11, Ademola Taiwo Street, Ketu-Ikosi, preventing the incident from escalating into a major disaster.
The fire affected one of a pair of three-storey twin residential buildings. Upon arrival, the Agency’s Tiger Squad discovered that the blaze had engulfed the topmost floor of the building. Emergency responders immediately launched coordinated firefighting operations, successfully containing the flames and preventing them from spreading to the adjoining structure and nearby properties.
Preliminary findings by LASEMA’s Response Team indicate that the fire was triggered by an electrical surge originating from a prepaid electricity meter installed on the building’s front balcony. The surge subsequently spread to the upper floor, igniting the blaze.
During the operation, two personnel of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service collapsed from exhaustion while battling the fire. They were promptly evacuated by LASEMA’s Response Team to the Trauma Centre using the Agency’s ambulance and an emergency response vehicle. Both firefighters received immediate medical attention, were stabilised, and are in good condition.
No fatalities or civilian injuries were recorded during the incident.
Following the successful containment of the fire, emergency responders commenced dampening-down operations to extinguish residual hotspots and eliminate any risk of re-ignition. Recovery activities are also ongoing to secure the affected building and assess the extent of structural damage.
LASEMA commended the courage, professionalism, and swift response of all emergency personnel, particularly members of the Tiger Squad and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, whose timely intervention prevented what could have resulted in extensive property damage and casualties.
The Agency also urged residents to prioritise routine inspection and maintenance of electrical installations, including prepaid meters, wiring, and related equipment, to reduce the risk of electrical faults and fire outbreaks.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, appealed to members of the public to remain calm during emergency situations and cooperate fully with emergency responders to facilitate effective operations.
He further reminded Lagos residents to report emergencies promptly through the Lagos State Emergency toll-free lines 112 and 767 for immediate assistance.
