Inferno Strikes Arena Market in Oshodi
A significant fire incident occurred on the evening of Monday, December 30, 2025, at a section of the popular Arena Market in Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos State. The blaze, which prompted a distress call at approximately 5:50 PM (17:50 hours), rapidly engulfed several shops within the bustling commercial hub. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS) confirmed that the inferno destroyed 10 shops and goods valued at millions of naira.
Details of the Devastation and Emergency Response
According to statements from Margaret Adeseye, the Controller-General of the LSFRS, the fire affected a specific section of the market comprising five 40-foot container shops arranged in two rows, totaling 10 affected shops. These shops were primarily used for the storage and sale of clothing materials stocked in bales, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Firefighting units were promptly dispatched and arrived at the scene within five minutes of receiving the distress call. Fire crews from Bolade, Ilupeju, Ikeja, and Alausa fire stations collaborated to contain the blaze, successfully preventing it from spreading to other parts of the market. The LSFRS confirmed that the fire was 'confined to the affected section and curtailed. The situation is firmly under control, and there is no risk of the fire spreading to other parts of the market.'
Traders Count Millions in Losses
The fire has left many traders in despair, with losses running into millions of naira. One trader reportedly lost N11 million in cash, which was intended for restocking after the New Year celebration. Another trader was alleged to have lost goods from a N200 million bank facility. Eyewitnesses and traders lamented the rapid spread of the fire, with one trader, Chris, attributing it to an alleged water shortage faced by the market's fire service. He stated, 'When the fire started, the Arena fire service was the first to arrive, but when they got here, they discovered that they had no water.' Another teenage trader, Chidi Nwafor, noted, 'We tried to salvage some of the goods, but the fire spread so quickly because of the clothes kept in the containers.'
Investigation Underway, No Casualties Reported
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Controller-General Margaret Adeseye assured the public that all necessary measures were taken to safeguard lives and property, and further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. This incident marks one of several recent fire outbreaks in Lagos, occurring just days after a major inferno at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island.
5 Comments
Bella Ciao
While it's good the LSFRS responded quickly and prevented wider spread, the alleged water shortage for the market's own service is deeply concerning. Market authorities must address these basic safety failures to protect livelihoods.
Comandante
Traders losing millions is heartbreaking. Where are the safety measures?
Bella Ciao
It's a relief that no casualties were reported, which is paramount. However, the financial devastation for these traders is immense and points to a desperate need for better market infrastructure and insurance awareness.
Bermudez
The fire service did well to contain the blaze given the circumstances, especially with highly flammable goods. Yet, the recurring nature of these incidents demands a serious review of fire prevention protocols and emergency readiness within markets.
ZmeeLove
My heart goes out to the traders who lost everything, highlighting their extreme vulnerability. While the cause is under investigation, market management needs to ensure proper safety equipment is functional and regularly maintained.