By Adeboye Ado

No fewer than 20 shops, generating sets, photocopy machines, and laptops were destroyed in a raging inferno near Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA).

Weekend Hope gathered that the incident, which occurred in the early hours of today, became a spectacle as the properties of shop owners were reduced to ashes.

A source, who preferred anonymity, disclosed that the fire was caused by generators and gas cylinders stored in some of the shops.

“I think the fire was caused as a result of many generators and gas cylinders in some of the shops, because none of them use electricity in their shops, it is sad this happened,” the source said.

A student, who simply identified herself as Tomiwa, said, “When the fire started, I saw the smoke, and we all rushed here. We tried fetching water, but we couldn’t extinguish the fire.”

Distressed by the incident, one of the affected shop owners, identified as Iya Doughnut, pleaded with the government to assist the victims.

“I can’t say anything now, my shop is part of the shops burnt. Please tell the government to come to our aid, please.”