Early morning fire razes shops in Oyo market

About 300 shops were reportedly destroyed by an early Monday morning fire at the popular Oranya Market in Ibadan North-East Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The fire, which started around midnight, affected shops occupied by traders dealing in gold, furniture, second-hand clothes and other goods.

The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Fire Reforms and State Chairman of Fire Services, Morof Akinwande, confirmed the incident but said the exact number of affected shops had yet to be established.

Akinwande said the fire started in the middle of the market following an explosion, although it was not immediately clear whether it was caused by gas or another source.

He said the fire was brought under control around 1am, while assessment of the damage was ongoing.

The official said it was too early to determine the number of shops affected or the value of goods and properties destroyed.