A fire incident has been reported at the Lagos Campus of the Nigerian Law School, forcing students to scamper for safety.
The stampede that occurred as the fire broke out around 10pm on Wednesday night also reportedly led to the injury of at least five persons who are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
It was gathered that the fire started as a result of a power surge from one of the hostels accomodating the students of the Law School which is located at Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Victoria Island, Lagos State.
An eyewitness quoted by Vanguard said the students scattered in different directions after the fire broke out with some jumping from the balcony.
The witness identified simply as Segun said the fire started from the first floor of the 5-story building hostel.
“The fire came with a big bang. There was stampede in the hostel. I saw a student jump out from the first floor where the fire started near the reading room. Other students ran out of their rooms in panic.
“At least, five people were seriously injured while one elderly woman who is a cleaner had her toe dislocated,” he stated.
The prompt intervention of the hostel security officials ensured the fire was put out before the officials of the State Fire Service arrived later.
It was reported that only one big electric cable was damaged in the fire outbreak as no tangible property was close to the place where the fire started from.
Confirming the incident, the Director of the Lagos State Fire Service and Rescue, Margret Adeseye, through, Public Affairs Officer, Amodu Shuabu, said power surge has been identified as the cause of the fire outbreak.
She added that a detailed investigation would be carried out to determine the immediate and remote cause of the incident with a view to prevent future occurrences.
