Ogun State to investigate Lipede market fire

The Ogun State Government has pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the fire that ravaged Oba Lipede International Market in Kuto, Abeokuta, destroying 15 shops and goods worth millions of naira on Saturday night.

Mr. Adebola Sofela, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, emphasized the need for a thorough probe to determine the cause of the incident and prevent future occurrences. During an assessment visit to the market on Monday, Sofela announced plans to deploy experts for an integrity test on the market building affected by the fire. He also assured swift rehabilitation of the affected parts.

Accompanied by Dr. Olu. Ola. Aikulola, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, market board officials, and Mrs. Tejumade Bakre, the Iyaloja, Sofela underscored the economic significance of the market, which has stood for over 43 years.

Mrs. Tejumade Bakre, the market leader, expressed gratitude to the government and security agencies for their prompt response, while condemning the subsequent looting of some shops.

The fire, reportedly sparked by a generator explosion fueled by gas, started around 10:15 pm on Saturday, spreading from illegal structures outside to the main building. Mrs. Funmi Efuwape, the Commissioner for Special Duties, confirmed on Sunday that 15 shops were affected and suggested clearing shanties and illegal structures to restore order in the market area.