By Deborah Nnamdi
A family in Ilorin, the Kwara State Capital, is facing a bleak yuletide season after a nine-year-old member set the family’s three-bedroom flat ablaze while playing with firecrackers on Thursday.
The incident occurred at No. 52 Mandate Housing Estate, Ilorin, where a three-bedroom flat was reduced to ashes.
Spokesman of the state fire service, Hassan Adekunle, in a statement in Ilorin on Friday, said, “The fire was caused by a 9-year-old child playing with matches, which ignited a mattress and escalated the blaze.
“We strongly urge the public to prioritize safety at all times, especially as children spend their holiday at home with limited supervision while many parents are at work. As the festive season approaches, we must emphasize the dangers of firecrackers, commonly known as “bangers.” A tragic incident from a few years ago serves as a sobering reminder.”
Hassan recalled that a young boy was playing with firecrackers when he heard the sound of his father’s car pulling into the driveway. “Panicked and afraid of being scolded, he quickly lit a firecracker and tossed it under the bed, thinking it would remain hidden.
“Moments later, his father walked in, oblivious to what had just happened. Excited to celebrate, the father decided to take the family out for some shopping. They locked the house and left, completely unaware of the smouldering danger spreading beneath the bed.
“By the time they returned, the fire had consumed the entire house, leaving nothing but ashes and heartbreak behind,” the statement added.
It said the devastating incident highlights the importance of vigilance and safety.
“Parents must educate their children on the dangers of firecrackers and ensure they are used responsibly, if at all. Let us all work together to prevent such tragedies this festive season.”
