On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at approximately 11:00 PM, a massive fire broke out at Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan, Oyo State, destroying over 500 shops and stalls. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other emergency units, including the Oyo State Fire Service and private fire teams, responded swiftly, but efforts to contain the fire were challenged by the lack of functional firefighting equipment and inadequate water supply. The fire, which began in the Plastic Merchants section, spread rapidly due to the highly flammable materials in the market. Although no deaths were recorded, several traders sustained minor injuries, and goods worth hundreds of millions of naira were lost, heavily affecting the traders and the local economy. The Oyo State Government, led by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, has pledged to provide immediate relief and to investigate the cause of the fire. Plans are underway to strengthen fire safety infrastructure in markets across the state. NEMA has recommended equipping market fire stations with adequate resources, conducting regular fire safety drills, establishing emergency response units, and supporting affected traders through relief packages and insurance schemes. The incident highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures to prevent future occurrences and safeguard the livelihoods of traders.
