Fire Guts Alaba International Market in Lagos, Traders Count Huge Losses
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
A devastating fire broke out on Tuesday evening at the Alaba International Market in Lagos, destroying numerous shops and warehouses while traders watched helplessly as their investments went up in flames.
According to reports gathered by Akahi News, the inferno erupted in one of the busy sections of the market and spread rapidly, consuming goods worth millions of naira. Eyewitnesses recounted that the fire began in the late hours of the evening, and many traders were unable to access their locked shops as the flames intensified.
Traders in Tears as Fire Sweeps Through Market
Scenes at the market were chaotic as hundreds of traders wept uncontrollably over their losses. A live stream from the scene showed thick, dark smoke covering the sky while distraught business owners struggled to salvage whatever goods they could.
Some affected traders who spoke with Akahi News expressed frustration over the delayed response from market security and rescue officials. Many alleged that early intervention could have minimised the damage.
Firefighters Battle to Contain Inferno
Officials from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service were promptly deployed to the scene, working tirelessly to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining structures. Despite their efforts, several warehouses and electrical stalls were already destroyed before the fire was brought under control.
An official of the fire service confirmed to Akahi News that investigations were underway to determine the exact cause of the incident. He urged traders to always comply with fire safety regulations, especially in densely populated markets like Alaba.
Millions Lost, Traders Plead for Government Support
Preliminary assessments suggest that the damage runs into hundreds of millions of naira, with traders now appealing to the Lagos State Government for urgent assistance. They called for immediate relief measures, proper market insurance systems, and improved fire safety infrastructure to prevent future occurrences.
Akahi News gathered that this is not the first time the Alaba market has experienced a fire outbreak, raising concerns about the need for stricter enforcement of safety standards in commercial markets across Lagos.
Akahi News will continue to monitor the situation as more details emerge.
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
