The Kwara State Fire Service has issued an urgent plea to the public, particularly game hunters, to cease the practice of bush burning, a hazardous activity that has ignited a spate of fire incidents across the state. In December 2024 alone, the Fire Service has responded to at least five separate fire outbreaks directly attributed to the uncontrolled burning of bushes, highlighting the growing threat this practice poses to lives, property, and the environment. The Service has emphasized the collective responsibility of citizens in preventing these incidents and urged community leaders to educate their constituents about the dangers of bush burning.
The recent surge in fire outbreaks underscores the severity of the situation. On Tuesday, December 17th, 2024, two separate incidents occurred in Ilorin, the state capital. The first incident, at Balogun, Oke-Odo, Tanke, resulted in the complete destruction of an abandoned hostel comprising nine residential units. The fire, sparked by an unidentified individual igniting undergrowth, ravaged the structure, leaving a trail of devastation. Later that same day, another fire was reported behind Kwara Hotel, also in Ilorin. Fortunately, the swift response of the Fire Service contained the blaze before it could spread to nearby buildings, averting potential property damage.
The same day, December 17th, 2024, witnessed yet another bush fire incident, this time within the grounds of Landmark University in Omu-Aran. The prompt intervention of the Fire Service was crucial in preventing the fire from escalating and causing significant damage to the university’s infrastructure. These incidents, occurring on a single day, illustrate the alarming frequency and widespread nature of bush burning and its potential to trigger uncontrollable fires.
Prior to these incidents, on Sunday, December 15th, 2024, a fire outbreak attributed to bush burning was reported in the Ganiki, Zango Area of Ilorin. While the specific details of this incident remain limited, its occurrence further underscores the pervasive nature of this dangerous practice. Earlier in the month, on Thursday, December 12th, 2024, a similar fire incident occurred in Igosun Town, Oyun Local Government, again originating from the burning of undergrowth. The repeated occurrence of these fires demonstrates a clear pattern of reckless behavior that demands immediate attention and community-wide action.
The Kwara State Fire Service, while committed to safeguarding lives and properties, has emphasized that its efforts alone cannot effectively address this escalating problem. The Service has called for the active cooperation of all residents of Kwara State in putting an end to bush burning. This requires a shift in mindset, recognizing the severe consequences of this practice and embracing the responsibility to protect the environment and the community. The Service has urged community leaders, including monarchs and village heads, to play a crucial role in educating their communities about the dangers of bush burning and fostering a culture of fire safety.
The Fire Service has reiterated the importance of immediate reporting of any fire outbreak, emphasizing that early detection and rapid response are crucial in minimizing damage and preventing loss of life. By working collaboratively with the community, the Kwara State Fire Service aims to create a safer and more fire-resilient environment for all residents. The call for collective action resonates with the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that preventing bush burning is not merely the responsibility of the Fire Service but a shared duty of every citizen in safeguarding their community.
