The Kwara State Fire Service has warned individuals and businesses against further encroachment on its fire station at Mandate Market, Adewole, Ilorin, saying any obstruction of the facility could hamper emergency response and endanger lives and property.
The warning followed an inspection of the facility by officials of the Fire Service, led by its Officer-in-Charge of Administration.
In a statement issued on Monday by the service’s spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, on behalf of the Chief Fire Officer, Muhammed Alabi, the agency said parts of the station had been occupied by unauthorised structures.
The Fire Service also disclosed that the station had previously been burgled, resulting in the theft of some firefighting equipment, including its steel water reservoir tank.
According to the agency, the Mandate Market station plays a critical role in responding to emergencies not only within the market but also in surrounding communities, including Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo.
“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.
It explained that the station’s location allows firefighters to reach emergencies quickly, particularly during the early stages of a fire when prompt intervention can prevent extensive damage.
The agency said the importance of preserving the facility became more evident following a midnight fire at the market several months ago, which destroyed 24 shops.
According to the Fire Service, firefighters faced difficulties reaching the affected area because of limited access for its fire appliance.
“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.
The agency warned that delays could have serious consequences in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored.
It urged traders, residents and other stakeholders to ensure that access routes around the station remained clear.
The Fire Service also highlighted the historical importance of the facility, noting that the station was established in 1989 after the site had previously been associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country.
“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” it said.
The agency warned against unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or commercial activities that could interfere with the station’s operations.
“The fire station must remain a fire station,” the Service stated.
It further stressed that economic activities should not compromise public safety or the ability of emergency responders to operate effectively.
“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.
The Fire Service called on relevant authorities to address existing encroachments and protect the facility and its access routes.
It maintained that safeguarding the station was necessary to protect traders, residents and businesses within its response area.
“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property across Kwara State.
