The Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, AbdulQawawiy Olododo, revealed that at least 10 lives were lost in various fire incidents across the state in 2023.
This was disclosed during an inter-ministerial press briefing organized by the Ministry of Communications and Strategy, marking the one-year anniversary of Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq’s second term.
Olododo highlighted the efforts of the state Fire Service, stating, “The State Fire Service during the time under review received 190 emergency calls from citizens.
The State Fire Service saved property worth over N18 billion from fire incidents in the past year, while the estimated value of property lost during this period amounted to N629 million.
Additionally, at least 10 lives were lost to fire disasters during the year, though many fire victims were rescued alive.”
He attributed the success in saving many lives and properties to the prompt interventions by Fire Service officers and the acquisition of modern firefighting equipment by the state government.
On infrastructure, Olododo reported significant progress in road projects, stating, “75 road projects earmarked for rehabilitation, reconstruction, and interlocking have been completed across the state, reducing travel times.
Work is ongoing on an additional 80 road projects across the 16 local government areas, aimed at further reconstruction, rehabilitation, or interlocking.”
In another development, the Commissioner for Social Development, Afolashade Opeyemi, raised concerns over the presence of armed beggars in the state.
During the briefing, Opeyemi lamented, “Our discovery is a confirmation that criminals keep their guns and other weapons with the so-called beggars.”
She revealed that the state government had conducted raids in the Ilorin metropolis, uncovering beggars in possession of dangerous arms such as guns, daggers, charms, and other weapons.
Opeyemi explained that 158 beggars, mainly from Bauchi, Kano, and other northern states, were removed from the streets over the past year.
“We have evacuated 158 young beggars from the streets; 88 were raided the first time while another 70 were later added.
They have since been repatriated to their states.”
She noted that these beggars had become a significant social menace, particularly in Ilorin and its environs.
The Commissioner added, “We have held several meetings with the leadership of these impaired individuals on the need to rid the state of menaces, but the truth is that they are just too stubborn.”
Opeyemi also mentioned the treatment of five lunatics threatening the peace in the Ilorin metropolis.
“Five lunatics have been treated at a psychiatric home in the Olorunda area, Ilorin, and discharged after due certification of their mental stability.
They have been repatriated back to their respective states,” she said.
