The Kwara State High Court in GRA, Irin, was gutted by fire on Tuesday morning, destroying properties worth millions of naira.

The fire razed through the complex with about 40 offices and three courtrooms, destroying the furniture and office equipment. Also affected by the inferno are the registry department and litigation office.

The State Director of Fire Service, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa, who confirmed the incident in a statement issued to journalists in Ilorin on the development, stated that the fire disaster was triggered by a power surge.

The statement reads: ”On the morning of February 13th, 2024, at 07:33 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service received a distress call regarding a fire outbreak at the State High Court in Ilorin.

“Responding swiftly, the fire crew rushed to the scene to find the imposing State High Court building ablaze. This building, housing 40 offices and 3 open courtrooms, was in peril, with the registry department and litigation office particularly affected by the inferno.

“With commendable courage and determination, the firefighters immediately commenced their efforts to combat the raging flames. Working tirelessly, they skillfully navigated through the burning structure, deploying their expertise and resources to contain and extinguish the fire.

“Despite the daunting challenges they faced, the firefighters succeeded in saving the State High Court from complete devastation, preventing what could have been a catastrophic loss.”

It added that “subsequent investigation into the cause of the fire revealed that it was triggered by a power surge, highlighting the importance of electrical safety measures.”