Bush burning claims 73-year-old man in Ilorin

A tragic bush fire incident on Cemetery Road, Irewolede area of Ilorin, has claimed the life of a 73-year-old man, identified as Pastor Awolola, following an undergrowth burning on his property.

The incident occurred on Monday, January 26, 2026, at about 11:58 a.m., according to a statement issued by the Kwara State Fire Service through its spokesperson Hassan Hakeem Adekunle.

Adekunle explained that the deceased had reportedly set undergrowth on fire within a fenced parcel of land containing an incomplete building. The fire, however, spread rapidly and engulfed the only exit from the premises.

“In an attempt to escape, the victim tried to climb through the fence, but the fire had already advanced to that point, resulting in his death,” the statement said.

Firefighters were said to have promptly responded to a distress call and successfully quenched the fire, preventing it from spreading to adjoining properties.

The lifeless body of the victim was recovered and handed over to the Community Chairman, Mr. Sunday Nuha, for further necessary action.

Reacting to the incident, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, CFS Alabi Muhammed, expressed deep sadness over the development and warned members of the public against bush and undergrowth burning.

He described the practice as dangerous and unpredictable, especially during dry and windy conditions, noting that it often leads to avoidable loss of lives and property. He urged residents to adopt safer land-clearing methods and to promptly report any fire outbreak.

“The Kwara State Fire Service reiterates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kwara State,” the statement added.