A fierce fire outbreak engulfed a medical facility in the Ago area of Lagos State on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a swift response from emergency services. Naija247news gathered that the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) deployed its firefighters and rescue teams to the scene in a bid to contain the blaze and prevent further damage.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the fire, which started in the early hours of the morning, quickly spread through parts of the facility, destroying medical equipment, drugs, and patient records. Eyewitnesses reported thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky, causing panic among residents and road users in the vicinity. LASEMA officials confirmed that no casualties were recorded, but the extent of the damage is yet to be fully assessed.
Naija247news understands that the cause of the fire is still under investigation, though preliminary reports suggest an electrical fault may have triggered the incident. “Our priority is to ensure the fire is completely extinguished and to secure the area to prevent any risk to lives and property,” said Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, LASEMA’s Director-General, while addressing journalists at the scene.
The emergency response team faced significant challenges in accessing the facility due to narrow roads and parked vehicles obstructing their path. Naija247news reports that LASEMA has called on residents to always ensure clear access routes for emergency vehicles, emphasizing that such obstacles can delay critical response times.
As the fire raged, medical staff and patients were evacuated to safety, with some patients relocated to nearby hospitals for continued care. Naija247news gathered that the incident has raised concerns about the safety standards of healthcare facilities in the state, particularly in densely populated areas like Ago.
Community leaders and stakeholders have urged the Lagos State Government to conduct a comprehensive audit of public and private medical facilities to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. “This is a wake-up call for all of us. We cannot afford to lose lives or property due to preventable incidents,” said Mr. Adewale Martins, a local resident.
According to Naija247news, LASEMA has assured the public that it will intensify efforts to educate businesses and residents on fire prevention measures. Meanwhile, the affected medical facility remains cordoned off as investigations continue.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for collective action to safeguard communities. As Lagos battles yet another fire outbreak, the resilience of its emergency services and the cooperation of its citizens will be crucial in mitigating future risks.
