JUST IN: Fire Guts Kwara High Court Complex

Fire reportedly engulfed the Kwara State High Court complex in the Government Reservation Area (GRA) Ilorin, the state’s capital, on Tuesday, February 13.

The inferno was said to have damaged the main building and offices located in the complex.

It was around 7.25 a.m. when the fire was noticed, damaging 40 offices and three open courtrooms, the Registry Department and the Litigation Office.

According to the State Fire Service, the fire was triggered by a surge in electricity supply to the area.

Hassan Adekunle, the Head of Media and Publicity of the Kwara State Fire Service, in a statement, confirmed the fire incident.

He said: “In the morning of February 13, 2024, at 07:33 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service received a distress call regarding a fire outbreak at the State High Court in Ilorin.

“Responding swiftly, the fire crew rushed to the scene to find the imposing State High Court building ablaze. This building, housing 40 offices and three open courtrooms, was in peril, with the registry department and litigation office particularly affected by the inferno.

“With commendable courage and determination, the firefighters immediately commenced their efforts to combat the raging flames. Working tirelessly, they skillfully navigated through the burning structure, deploying their expertise and resources to contain and extinguish the fire.

“Despite the daunting challenges they faced, the firefighters succeeded in saving the State High Court from complete devastation, preventing what could have been a catastrophic loss.

Adekunle said that Falade Olumuyiwa, the state Director of Fire Service, urged the people to prioritise safety awareness and precautions daily.

“This call to action underscores the critical role that vigilance and preparedness play in preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future,” he added.