A fire outbreak on Monday afternoon affected one of the residential quarters at the Kwara State Polytechnic (Kwarapoly) in Ilorin. The incident, which occurred at approximately 03:17 pm, involved three blocks of two-bedroom flats within the institution's staff quarters.

According to reports, the fire was triggered by indiscriminate bush burning. Preliminary investigations by the state fire service revealed that an unidentified person set fire to undergrowth, which subsequently spread and ignited the fascia boards of the residential buildings.

The Public Relations Officer of the Kwara State Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, confirmed the incident, noting that the timely intervention of firefighters was crucial. Their rapid response allowed the team to successfully contain the blaze, preventing the fire from causing extensive structural damage to the quarters.

While the fascia boards of the residential blocks were affected, the buildings were saved from total destruction. Fire officials have repeatedly warned against the dangers of setting fire to bushes near residential areas, especially during the current dry weather conditions.

"The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, CFS Alabi Muhammed, strongly advised the public to desist from indiscriminate bush burning, especially around residential and institutional facilities.

He emphasised that undergrowth fires can easily escalate into major structural fires, particularly during dry and windy conditions.

"The Director urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities and fire outbreaks to enable early intervention.

"The Kwara State Fire Service remains committed to protecting lives and property and calls on the public to cooperate in preventing avoidable fire incidents across the state."