Emir of Ilorin mourns fire losses, commends Fire Service for saving N17bn in property

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has called on residents of Ilorin and the wider state to prioritize safety and take appropriate measures to protect lives and property in their communities.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Abdulazeez Arowona, on Sunday, the emir expressed deep sadness over the numerous fire incidents in Ilorin, which have led to significant property losses. “It is unfortunate to witness the destruction of property, especially during this challenging period of economic hardship,” the statement read.

The Emir extended his sympathy to the victims of these fires and prayed for divine assistance to help them cope with their losses.

Kwara State’s Commissioner for Works and Transport, Abdulqwayy Olododo, revealed that the state fire service had recorded an estimated N817 million in property losses due to fire incidents between January and December 2024. However, he commended the fire service for its efforts, noting that it had successfully saved N17 billion worth of property during the same period.

In another development, the Kwara State Fire Service has issued a warning to game hunters in the state, urging them to cease the dangerous practice of setting fires in search of bush meat. According to a statement from Hassan Adekunle, Principal Fire Officer and Head of Media and Publicity, the fire service responded to at least five fire incidents caused by bush burning in December 2024 alone.

The Fire Service has called for immediate cessation of this reckless behavior, which has caused widespread property damage and posed serious risks to lives and the environment.

“We urge monarchs, village heads, and community leaders to take responsibility by educating their communities on the dangers of bush burning and its devastating consequences. Preventing these incidents is a collective responsibility that begins with awareness and action,” the statement emphasized.

The Fire Service also listed recent fire outbreaks attributed to bush burning, underscoring the need for public cooperation to prevent future incidents.

“We are committed to protecting lives and property, but we cannot do it alone,” the Fire Service said. “We need the cooperation of all Kwarans to stop bush burning immediately. This reckless behavior has far-reaching consequences, and it is preventable if we all act responsibly.”

Residents are encouraged to report any fire outbreaks immediately by contacting the Fire Service.

“Together, let’s build a safer and more fire-resilient Kwara State,” the statement concluded