Neighbours recount Tragic Fire Incident that Claimed Lives of Family of Three in Ibadan

Neighbors of a family of three who died in a fire incident in Ibadan have recounted the harrowing events that led to their deaths.

The incident occurred on Friday at Omotara Compound, Ori Eru, Idikan, in Ibadan North West Local Government Area, claiming the lives of a 60-year-old man, known as “Baba Yunus,” his wife, and their eight-year-old grandson, Samuel.

The Oyo State Fire Service General Manager, Yemi Akinyinka, confirmed the tragedy, stating that their team received a distress call at 3:46 a.m. and promptly responded. Upon arrival, officers found the upper floor of the six-room building engulfed in flames. Despite their efforts, three lives were lost, while five individuals were rescued.

Akinyinka explained, “We evacuated three bodies—husband, wife, and grandson. Only doctors can confirm the cause of death. The fire was extinguished, and nearby properties were protected. Unfortunately, the upper floor where the victims were located was completely consumed by flames.”

Neighbors described the incident as both shocking and tragic, recounting the desperate cries of the victims as the fire raged. Bose Ayinde, a neighbor, recalled, “The fire started around midnight. We heard loud voices and initially thought it was a robbery. When we rushed out, we saw the fire. It was so intense that we couldn’t get close to help. Sadly, the couple and their grandson were burned to death.”

Another resident, Aliu Omotara, explained that the fire reportedly began in the living room, blocking the victims’ only exit. “The couple and their grandson shouted for help. They tried escaping through the window, but the burglar-proof bars made it impossible. The fire was so fierce that we couldn’t even approach to assist,” he said. He added that the fire likely originated from a hot plate the family had been using and accidentally left on while they slept.

Dupe Ajibade, another witness, lamented the delayed arrival of the fire service. “If not for the efforts of the community members, more houses would have been consumed. By the time firefighters arrived, the house was already destroyed. It was heartbreaking to see their bodies brought out,” she said.

The tragic incident has left the community mourning and underscores the importance of fire safety and quick emergency response to prevent similar occurrences.