Fire guts shops, destroys properties worth millions in Ondo

Tragedy struck in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, on Thursday night as a raging fire ravaged at least ten shops opposite the main gate of Adekunle Ajasin University, leaving traders in shock and despair.

The inferno, which reportedly started around 10 p.m., spread rapidly from one shop to another, consuming goods, equipment, and valuables worth millions of naira before help could arrive.

One of the worst-hit victims, who identified himself simply as Prince, narrated his ordeal with anguish.

He said, “I repair laptops and over 400 laptops in my shop have been burnt to ashes. I don’t know what to do; the laptops and my tools are all gone.”

Another trader recounted losing four deep freezers filled with drinks and other supplies, while colleagues who dealt in mobile phones and accessories watched helplessly as their entire stock was reduced to rubble.

Eyewitnesses told reporters that the fire spread too quickly for any meaningful rescue effort, leaving shop owners stranded and in tears.

Although the immediate cause of the fire is yet to be officially confirmed, some sources suggested that it may have been triggered by an electrical spark.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Akungba-Akoko Local Council Development Area, Mr. Yomi Alabi, described the fire as a “devastating blow” to the community and promised that efforts would be made to support the affected traders.

“We sympathise deeply with the victims of this tragedy. The council will work with relevant state agencies to investigate the cause and see how relief can be provided,” he assured.

The management of Adekunle Ajasin University also expressed concern, noting that the shops play a vital role in serving the university community. In a statement, the institution’s spokesperson said:

“This is an unfortunate incident that has affected members of our host community. We urge traders to adhere to safety measures, and we call on authorities to provide fire service facilities around the campus to prevent a recurrence.”

The traditional ruler of the town, the Alale of Akungbaland, Oba Oseni Isiaka Adu, expressed deep sympathy with the management of Oroke High School and business owners whose shops were destroyed in the inferno.

The monarch described the incident as a tragic and painful loss to the entire community, stressing that both education and livelihoods were gravely affected.

“I pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy, will grant the victims the strength, wisdom, and resources to recover from their losses,” he said.

The monarch further called on residents of Akungba-Akoko to stand in unity and extend support to those affected, reaffirming that community solidarity is vital in moments of distress.

“May God’s blessings and comfort be upon the victims and upon our entire community during this challenging time,” Kabiyesi prayed.

Meanwhile, residents and students of Adekunle Ajasin University have urged the Ondo State Fire Service to strengthen its presence in the town, insisting that the absence of immediate firefighting response worsened the scale of destruction.

Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the inferno, even as victims begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE