Properties worth millions of naira have been razed to the ground at Ikotun… as several shops and goods were destroyed in the early hours of January 1, 2026.

Videos circulating on social media show intense flames and thick smoke rising from parts of the market, while residents and traders looked on helplessly. Eyewitnesses at the scene said the fire started around 12:05 a.m. and spread quickly through closely packed stalls.

Ikotun Market is one of the major commercial centres serving residents across Alimosho and surrounding areas. Recurrent market fires in Lagos continue to raise concerns about fire safety standards, emergency response capacity and the vulnerability of traders’ livelihoods.

Chioma Onuh is a journalist, social media manager and SEO specialist with over five years of experience in digital storytelling and audience engagement. She writes clear, human-centred stories and profiles, and currently manages digital content and strategy at BusinessDay.

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