A fire outbreak occurred at the popular Gbagi Market in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, yesterday, destroying two shops before emergency responders brought the situation under control.

The Guardian learnt that the fire, which broke out in the early afternoon, triggered panic among traders and shoppers. The blaze, however, was quickly contained through the intervention of the Oyo State Fire Service and support from the police and market leaders.

In a statement issued by the General Manager of the Oyo State Fire Services, Mr Akinyemi Akinyinka, distress calls were received around 1:23 p.m. from officers at the Gbagi Fire Station, the Divisional Police Officer, and several market leaders, prompting a rapid response from emergency units.

Akinyinka noted that a detailed report on the incident would be provided once the fire truck returns to the headquarters and assessments are concluded.
As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire had not been determined.