Oyo State Records 272 Fire Incidents in Nine Months, Fire Service Warns of Rising Risks

A total of 272 fire incidents were recorded in Oyo State between January and September 2025, according to the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande. The figure, which covers both urban and rural areas across the state, highlights growing safety concerns and underscores the need for stronger preventive measures among residents.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with DAILY POST over the weekend, Akinwande revealed that despite the improved response capacity of the fire service, the frequency of fire outbreaks has remained a major challenge. He emphasized that the traditional notion that fire disasters occur only during the dry season no longer holds true, as the state has witnessed several major incidents even in the middle of the rainy season.

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A Changing Fire Pattern

According to Akinwande, the changing weather conditions, increased human activities, and negligence toward safety measures have contributed to the growing number of fire incidents.

“The traditional belief of people is that we only have fire incidents during dry seasons, but the pattern has changed,” he said. “We have had a lot of fire outbreaks in the last nine months, even during the rainy season. The figure is very enormous. If these are happening during the rainy season, then we should be more prepared for the dry season.”

He explained that between January and September 2025, the Oyo State Fire Service recorded the following monthly breakdown of incidents: 39 in January, 35 in February, 33 in March, 32 in April, 35 in May, 27 in June, 23 in July, 21 in August, and 27 in September.

Akinwande noted that this distribution indicates a steady occurrence of fire incidents throughout the year, signaling that fire disasters are no longer limited to periods of extreme heat or drought.

Infrastructure Upgrade and Emergency Preparedness

The fire service boss disclosed that the agency has significantly upgraded its infrastructure to enhance response to emergencies. He said the service has improved its logistics, training, and communication systems to ensure swift response to fire calls across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State.

“We have upgraded our infrastructure. Nobody can have it all, but I can confidently say that we are about 80 percent prepared,” Akinwande stated. “In the last nine months, there has been no fire incident that we did not attend to. We attended to all the cases reported to us.”

He credited this improved efficiency to the support of the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde, which has provided resources to strengthen the service. According to him, the agency now has better access to fire trucks, communication devices, and operational tools, enabling firemen to respond more promptly.

Call for Public Safety Awareness

Akinwande, however, stressed that despite the fire service’s improved response capability, prevention remains the best approach. He expressed concern that many residents still fail to adopt basic safety measures such as installing fire extinguishers, using certified electrical appliances, and ensuring proper waste disposal.

“Many people don’t care to have fire extinguishers. When a fire occurs, their only option is to call the fire service,” he lamented. “Safety does not start the day it occurs. It starts from the first day of construction of houses, industries, or offices. People should be conscious of their environment and avoid actions that could lead to fire outbreaks.”

He urged builders, business owners, and household heads to prioritize safety designs such as accessible escape routes, functional smoke detectors, and fire-resistant materials. He also warned against illegal electrical connections, improper use of gas cylinders, and careless handling of flammable substances.

“People should employ preventive measures. Use the right appliances. Ensure proper disposal of waste. Always switch off electrical devices when not in use. These are simple steps that can save lives and properties,” he advised.

Role of the Media and Community Cooperation

Akinwande commended the media for their role in raising public awareness about fire safety, noting that frequent reporting of fire incidents has helped sensitize the public. “I want to appreciate the media for their continuous reporting of these incidents. It is going a long way to raise people’s consciousness about their safety,” he said.

He further emphasized that effective fire management requires strong community cooperation. He urged residents to report fire outbreaks promptly, avoid mob interference during rescue operations, and support firefighters instead of obstructing their work.

“When people see smoke or fire, they should call us immediately. Don’t assume that someone else has already done so. A quick response can make a big difference,” Akinwande explained.

Fire Incidents in Context

Oyo State, like many other states in Nigeria, has faced recurring fire disasters over the years. Markets, residential buildings, and fuel depots have been particularly vulnerable. Experts link many of these incidents to poor infrastructure, low public awareness, and delayed emergency response.

However, the Fire Service chairman expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and public education campaigns will help reduce the trend. He said that if residents adopt basic safety habits and collaborate with authorities, the number of fire outbreaks can drop significantly.

Preparedness for the Dry Season

Looking ahead, Akinwande warned that the approaching dry season could pose heightened risks if preventive measures are not taken. “If we could record 272 cases during a period that includes the rainy season, then we must brace ourselves for even more challenges as the weather gets hotter and drier,” he said.

He assured residents that the fire service has developed a proactive strategy for the coming months, including community sensitization programs, simulation drills, and inter-agency collaboration with security and emergency bodies.

Conclusion

The report of 272 fire incidents in Oyo State within just nine months serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for greater public awareness and preventive action. While the state fire service has demonstrated commendable readiness and improved infrastructure, safety begins at the individual and community levels.

Hon. Maroof Akinwande’s message is clear: fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility. As the state moves toward the dry season, residents must prioritize safety, adopt responsible practices, and support emergency responders in protecting lives and property.

By working together—government, media, and citizens alike—Oyo State can reduce the alarming frequency of fire outbreaks and safeguard communities from avoidable tragedies.