The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the death of an 80-year-old woman, Mariam Salako, in a tragic fire incident that occurred in the early hours of Saturday in the Ago Ka area of Abeokuta. According to the police spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, the fire broke out around 1:00 a.m. at a residence located at No. 28 Ifelodun, Ago Ka. The incident prompted an immediate response from local authorities and the state fire department, yet sadly resulted in the loss of the elderly resident.
Odutola explained that a distress call alerted the police and fire services to the burning building. Upon receiving the call, the Area Commander swiftly mobilized a team of police officers to the location, while the Ogun State Fire Service was contacted for additional support. Firefighters arrived promptly and were able to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading further and causing more damage. Despite their efforts, however, Mariam Salako, who was inside the building at the time, was unable to escape the blaze and tragically lost her life. Her remains have since been transferred to the morgue for further arrangements.
In addition to Salako, there was another resident in the building, a man identified by neighbors as Baba Ali, whose age remains undetermined. He was reportedly asleep when the fire broke out. Thanks to the quick response of community members, Baba Ali was rescued through a window, narrowly escaping the flames. His condition following the incident has not been fully disclosed, though initial reports suggest he did not sustain severe injuries.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, as authorities work to determine whether it was an accident or possibly caused by an external factor. Odutola emphasized the importance of community vigilance and quick emergency responses, which helped prevent further casualties. The incident has cast a somber mood over the Ago Ka community, with residents mourning the loss of Salako and expressing gratitude for the safety of Baba Ali.
