A recent post-disaster assessment conducted by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has unveiled the grim extent of the early morning inferno that engulfed Ladipo Plank Market in Iganmu Road, Amukoko, Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos. The report from NEMA’s official social media page indicates that a total of 351 shops were obliterated, impacting approximately 1,000 traders.
This devastating loss was confirmed by the Agency during their post-disaster assessment. It was observed that the shops, along with 25 attached stalls, typically housed a minimum of five traders each, according to Mr. Sola Oyegoke, the Secretary of the Traders’ Association, who led the assessment team on behalf of Alhaji Ayelabawo Tajudeen, the Baba Loja. It’s worth noting that the market management adhered to a daily practice of switching off electricity at 8:00 PM and restoring it at 8:00 AM, despite the incident’s cause remaining uncertain. Stringent precautionary measures and inspections were in place to avert fire hazards.
Ladipo Plank Market, contrary to its name, also served as a hub for artisans such as tailors, fashion designers, and printers. The Traders’ Association boasted a membership of 1,058 registered members, and the fire’s impact extended to two residential buildings in proximity to the market.
During the assessment, traders had already cleared the remnants of burnt milling and sewing machines. NEMA underscored the significance of heightened safety awareness, particularly with the approaching dry season, which could bring drier conditions and associated challenges.
