Fire engulfs residential building in Kwara after transmission line falls

A fire on Thursday, 12th June 2025, broke out at Alfa Olorunkemi Compound, located behind the Kwara State House of Assembly in the Asa-Dam area of Ilorin, prompting an immediate response from the Kwara State Fire Service.

According to a statement by Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, the Head of Media and Publicity, Kwara State Fire Service, the firefighters, upon arrival, found that the blaze originated from a three-unit building of 3-bedroom apartments.

It was gathered that the fire was ignited when a 33kVA transmission line fell onto a plastic overhead water tank, causing significant flames to erupt.

In the face of this emergency, firefighting teams began their operations but quickly encountered a critical hurdle: the risk associated with the continuous power supply from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC). This ongoing power flow not only presented a safety hazard but also complicated their firefighting efforts.

Meanwhile, the Fire Service spokesperson promptly contacted the IBEDC control room, requesting an immediate shutdown of the power supply to the area. “Cutting the power was essential for our safety and effectiveness in combating the blaze,” he noted. Once power was cut, the fire was finally contained, preventing further damage and saving the building from total destruction.

The statement, however, quoted Prince Falade John, Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, expressing gratitude for the rapid response of the fire crew. “Their quick actions were instrumental in preventing a larger disaster,” he stated.

He further emphasized the importance of public safety, advising, “Residents should remain safety-conscious and avoid constructing buildings close to transmission lines, as this poses serious risks to life and property.”