A devastating fire erupted at Ajah Market near Alesh bus stop in Lekki, Lagos, on Sunday night, destroying numerous shops and goods valued at millions of naira. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) reported that the blaze began around 10:10 p.m., engulfing several stores containing combustible materials.
Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, stated that the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported. The swift response of LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service prevented the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings.
This incident follows a similar fire in February 2024, when a furniture market opposite Blenco Supermarket along Addo Road in Ajah was gutted, resulting in significant financial losses for traders.
Frequent market fires in Lagos have raised concerns about safety measures and emergency preparedness. Authorities are urged to implement stricter safety protocols to prevent such disasters.
As investigations continue, affected traders are left to assess their losses and seek support to rebuild their livelihoods.
