A fallen 33-kilovolt (kV) electricity line has triggered a fire that damaged three buildings, destroyed a vulcanising workshop and burnt a vehicle in Oloje Phase 2, Ilorin, Kwara State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday on Lawyer Lambo Street in Ilorin West Local Government Area after a concrete pole carrying the transmission line reportedly collapsed.

Residents rescued occupants of a room-and-parlour apartment as the fire spread to adjoining properties. Those rescued included a family that had recently welcomed a newborn baby.

Three vehicles were parked inside one of the affected four-bedroom flats when the fire broke out. One was completely burnt, while firefighters prevented the flames from destroying the other two vehicles.

The blaze also damaged the kitchen of another four-bedroom apartment, affecting a freezer, other electrical appliances and the building’s solar power system.

An adjoining travel and tours office also suffered damage to its solar installation, four tubular batteries and other electrical equipment.

A nearby vulcanising workshop was completely destroyed after the fallen electricity line reportedly landed on the facility and a vehicle. Sparks from the cable ignited the vehicle’s tyre, causing the flames to spread rapidly to surrounding properties.

Residents said firefighters arrived at the scene at about 2:41am and contacted the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to disconnect electricity supply to the affected area because of the danger posed by the fallen line.

The Chief Fire Officer, Alabi Muhammed, confirmed the incident and urged residents and property developers to comply with prescribed safety setbacks around electricity transmission lines.

He warned that building too close to power infrastructure could expose people and property to fire outbreaks, electrocution and other hazards.

Muhammed also advised residents to promptly report collapsed electricity poles, damaged installations and exposed cables to the appropriate authorities.

He cautioned members of the public against touching fallen power lines or any objects in contact with them, stressing the need to keep a safe distance until the area had been secured.

The Kwara State Fire Service commended residents who helped evacuate occupants of the affected apartment before the fire spread further.