The Kwara State Fire Service has warned against further encroachment, occupation and conversion of its fire station within Mandate Market, Adewole, Ilorin, saying the development could undermine emergency response and put lives and property at risk.The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the service’s spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, on behalf of the Chief Fire Officer, Muhammed Alabi.The Service issued the warning after an inspection visit to the station by a team led by its Officer-in-Charge, Administration, during which it observed that portions of the premises had been taken over by unauthorised structures and occupants.The Service also said the facility had previously been burgled, with some firefighting equipment reportedly stolen, including the station’s steel water reservoir tank.According to the statement, the development was particularly concerning because the Mandate Market station serves not only the market but also several surrounding communities and commercial areas.“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the service’s spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, on behalf of the Chief Fire Officer, Muhammed Alabi.The Service issued the warning after an inspection visit to the station by a team led by its Officer-in-Charge, Administration, during which it observed that portions of the premises had been taken over by unauthorised structures and occupants.The Service also said the facility had previously been burgled, with some firefighting equipment reportedly stolen, including the station’s steel water reservoir tank.According to the statement, the development was particularly concerning because the Mandate Market station serves not only the market but also several surrounding communities and commercial areas.“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service issued the warning after an inspection visit to the station by a team led by its Officer-in-Charge, Administration, during which it observed that portions of the premises had been taken over by unauthorised structures and occupants.The Service also said the facility had previously been burgled, with some firefighting equipment reportedly stolen, including the station’s steel water reservoir tank.According to the statement, the development was particularly concerning because the Mandate Market station serves not only the market but also several surrounding communities and commercial areas.“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service also said the facility had previously been burgled, with some firefighting equipment reportedly stolen, including the station’s steel water reservoir tank.According to the statement, the development was particularly concerning because the Mandate Market station serves not only the market but also several surrounding communities and commercial areas.“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. According to the statement, the development was particularly concerning because the Mandate Market station serves not only the market but also several surrounding communities and commercial areas.“The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “The strategic importance of the Mandate Market Fire Station extends beyond the immediate market environment,” the Service said.It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. It listed Adewole, Warrah, Oloje and Oko-Olowo among areas within the station’s response corridor, stressing that its location enables firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies in the areas.The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service said the station’s proximity to these communities was particularly important during the early stages of a fire when rapid intervention could determine the extent of damage.“This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “This is precisely why the protection of the facility should be regarded as a matter of public safety and community security, rather than simply a matter concerning a piece of government property,” it added.The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The warning comes months after a midnight fire outbreak at Mandate Market destroyed 24 shops, an incident the Service said had highlighted the consequences of obstructing access to emergency scenes.According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. According to the Service, one of the major challenges encountered by firefighters during the incident was gaining close access to the affected location with the fire appliance.The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The agency explained that firefighting trucks require sufficient and unobstructed access routes to get as close as safely possible to fire incidents.“Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “Where such routes are blocked by shops, structures or other forms of encroachment, valuable response time is lost,” the statement said.The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service noted that the situation could be particularly dangerous in markets where shops are closely packed and combustible materials are stored, warning that even a short delay could allow a fire to spread to neighbouring businesses.“The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “The recent Mandate Market incident should therefore serve as a clear warning to everyone about the consequences of compromising emergency access,” it said.Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. Beyond the recent fire incident, the Service said the Mandate Market Fire Station had a long-standing history, with historical records indicating that the site was among the earliest government facilities established within the market area.Related NewsLASEMA contains Lagos fire, records zero casualtyVenezuela quake death toll rises to 6,301Lagos arrests hoodlums accused of attacking motoristsThe agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The agency said the location was historically associated with a joint trade fair that attracted traders from different parts of the country before the fire station was constructed in 1989.It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. It added that the facility was subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Fire Service for firefighting and emergency response operations.“For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “For decades, the facility has formed part of the state’s emergency response infrastructure and was established to serve a purpose that remains as important today as it was at the time of its establishment,” the statement said.The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service warned individuals, groups and entities involved in, contemplating or encouraging encroachment, unauthorised construction, occupation, conversion or obstruction of the station and its emergency access routes to desist.“The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “The fire station must remain a fire station,” it stated.The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The agency said no commercial activity, whether involving temporary or permanent structures, should be allowed to compromise a facility established to protect lives and businesses.It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. It further warned that it would not support any development capable of putting firefighters, firefighting appliances or members of the public at unnecessary risk during emergency operations.The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Fire Service also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect the integrity of the facility, address existing encroachments and ensure that emergency access routes remained clear and unobstructed.The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The agency acknowledged the importance of commercial activities and the livelihoods of traders at Mandate Market but maintained that economic activities should operate alongside adequate safety measures.“A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “A functional fire station within a major market should be regarded as an advantage and a protective shield, not as an opportunity for additional commercial development,” it said.The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Service argued that allowing an existing fire station to become compromised by encroachment would be counterproductive at a time when markets across the state were seeking improved fire safety infrastructure because of the devastating impact of market fires.It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. It therefore appealed to stakeholders to protect the facility and allow it to perform the life-saving function for which it was established.“Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. “Emergency infrastructure must not be sacrificed for temporary economic gain,” the agency said.The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. The Fire Service maintained that preserving the Mandate Market station was not only about protecting government property but also about safeguarding traders, residents and businesses within the station’s response area.It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and said it would continue to take necessary steps, within its mandate and in collaboration with relevant authorities, to safeguard critical firefighting infrastructure across Kwara State.