Hundreds of shops have been destroyed following an early morning fire outbreak at the popular Oranyan Market in Ibadan North-East Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The fire reportedly started around midnight on Monday, August 24, and spread through several sections of the market, destroying shops and goods belonging to traders.
Among those reportedly affected were traders dealing in gold, furniture, second-hand clothing and other goods.
An eyewitness identified as Iya Alia said the fire started around midnight, although she could not confirm the exact time it began.
“The fire started around midnight. I cannot be specific about that time. Those affected were gold sellers, furniture sellers, second-hand clothes sellers and many others. The shops affected were almost 300,” she said.
The fire has since been brought under control, preventing it from spreading further across the market.
However, the full extent of the damage and the value of goods destroyed are yet to be determined.
The cause of the fire also remains unknown as authorities are expected to commence investigations into the incident.