The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) says explosion from a generator caused the Wednesday fire outbreak at the popular Balogun Market on Lagos Island, leading to destruction of seven buildings.
Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the Director-General of the agency, made this known in Lagos.
Oke-Osanyintolu said: “We were informed that some people were fueling their generator, and suddenly, the generator exploded in flames and spread to other buildings.’’
He said that seven buildings on Martins Street, were gutted by fire at the market.
The director-general said that four of the buildings collapsed while the rescue operation was still on.
Oke-Osanyintolu said that LASEMA and the Lagos Fire Service officials were promptly mobilised to the scene to put off the raging fire.
The director said that two of the affected buildings collapsed to ground zero, adding that LASEMA had, however, curtailed the fire from spreading to other buildings.
“We are going to carry out integrity test on all the structures, and any building that failed the integrity test will be pulled down.
“Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu is doing a lot to ensure the safety of lives and property.
“The attitude of our people is highly challenging and does not conform to the mission and vision of the governor.
“The governor has made it known that safety of lives and property is paramount in his agenda.
“However, we are appealing to our people to change their attitudes through various sensitisation and advocacy from time to time,’’ Oke-Osanyintolu said.
The LASEMA boss lauded the efforts of all key stakeholders, including Julius Berger, Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Fire and other agencies in
managing emergencies as they occur in the state.
