Two firefighters have been hospitalised after collapsing while battling a massive fire that destroyed the top floor of a three-storey residential building in the Ketu-Ikosi area of Lagos State.
The early morning incident triggered a rapid emergency response, with firefighters successfully preventing the blaze from spreading to nearby buildings despite the intensity of the fire.
Fire Breaks Out in Ketu-Ikosi Residential Building
The fire occurred at approximately 6:31 a.m. at No. 11, Ademola Taiwo Street, Ketu-Ikosi, where one of two adjoining three-storey residential buildings was engulfed in flames.
Emergency responders arrived quickly after receiving distress calls and immediately launched coordinated firefighting operations to contain the inferno before it spread to the neighbouring building and surrounding properties.
The blaze was eventually brought under control, limiting the damage to the affected building.
Electrical Surge Identified as Cause of the Fire
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire was triggered by an electrical surge from a prepaid electricity meter installed on the balcony at the front of the building.
The electrical fault reportedly ignited the meter before flames rapidly spread to the upper floor, causing significant damage to the residential property.
Authorities are expected to conduct further assessments to determine the full extent of the damage.
Two Firefighters Collapse During Rescue Operation
While battling the intense fire, two firefighters involved in the emergency operation suddenly collapsed.
They were immediately evacuated from the scene by emergency response teams and transported to a trauma centre for urgent medical treatment using an ambulance and another emergency response vehicle.
Officials confirmed that both firefighters are currently in stable condition and receiving medical care.
No Deaths or Resident Injuries Recorded
Despite the severity of the fire, authorities confirmed that no residents were injured and no lives were lost during the incident.
Emergency teams continued dampening-down operations after extinguishing the flames to eliminate residual heat and reduce the possibility of another fire breaking out.
Recovery operations also remained ongoing as officials worked to secure the damaged structure and assess the level of destruction.
Emergency Responders Praised for Preventing a Bigger Disaster
Authorities commended the swift intervention of emergency personnel, noting that their quick response prevented what could have become a much larger disaster.
By containing the flames before they spread to the adjoining residential building, emergency crews helped protect nearby homes and residents from further destruction.
