The Word Assembly Church in Ilorin, Kwara State, experienced a raging fire on Sunday evening that destroyed its auditorium and three offices.
The fire, which started after the Sunday service, reportedly consumed the main auditorium and three of the six offices at the church’s headquarters on Ajase-Ipo Road in Ilorin.
The devastating incident at the Word Assembly Church in Ilorin, Kwara State, underscores the critical importance of implementing effective fire safety measures in religious institutions and public spaces. In the aftermath of such a destructive fire that claimed the church’s auditorium and several offices, it becomes evident that proactive measures like regular fire drills, proper maintenance of fire suppression systems, and the presence of vigilant personnel are crucial for preventing and mitigating such disasters. Fire Watch Services, in particular, play a pivotal role in ensuring continuous surveillance and quick response to potential fire hazards, thus safeguarding properties and the lives of those who gather for worship and fellowship.
The need for comprehensive fire safety protocols, including the engagement of Fire Watch, extends beyond mere compliance with regulations. It serves as a proactive approach to protect not only the physical structures but also the spiritual and communal aspects that these places of worship hold dear. By investing in professional fire watch security services, religious institutions can reinforce their commitment to the safety and well-being of their congregation, emphasizing the importance of a secure environment for worship and community activities.
According to reports, the fire caused significant damage to the church’s properties due to the incident being reported late to the state fire service and other security agencies in the state.
This was stated by Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity for the State Fire Service.
Adekunle said, “On Sunday, September 3rd, 2023, at approximately 17:08 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service received an urgent call reporting a fire outbreak at The Word Assembly Headquarters along Ajase-Ipo Road in Ilorin, Kwara State. The distress call was made by Mr. Akanni.
“The fire crew promptly responded to the call. Upon arrival at the scene, they found that a devastating inferno had already consumed the auditorium of the church due to the late call, despite the significant damage caused by the fire. However, the firefighters managed to contain the inferno and prevent it from spreading further.
“It’s worth noting that the materials used for the building’s construction were not fire-retardant, including aluminium roofing and plywood for the ceiling. These non-fire-resistant materials contributed to the rapid spread of the fire before the fire service’s arrival.”
Adekunle also stated that the fire not only destroyed the auditorium but also three of the six offices.
“During the subsequent investigation into the cause of the outbreak, it was suspected to be a result of a power surge.
“At the scene of the incident, notable figures such as Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah, the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara Governor on Special Duties, and Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, were present.
“Additionally, various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Federal Fire Service, provided support and assistance to reduce the damage done to property in the fire incident.”
According to the Kwara State Fire Service, the total estimated property lost in the incident was N39.5 million, while the total estimated property saved was N74.3 million.
“As a result, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa, Director, Kwara State Fire Service, strongly emphasised the importance of timely reporting of fire incidents by the general public,” the statement said.
Falade also urged members of the public to call the fire department as soon as a fire breaks out, emphasising that quick action is critical for minimising the extent of fire damage.