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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Jacob Jarvis, Ted Hennessey

Balogun market fire: Huge blaze breaks out at busy shopping hub in central Lagos

A major blaze has broken out at the Balogun market in central Lagos.

Huge clouds of thick black smoke pouredfrom the scene, while flames shot up from five-story buildings surrounding the market.

As fire vehicles attempted to get access to the fire, residents were throwing what belongings they could from the buildings.

Some people on the rooftops were using small buckets of water to try to stop the fire.

Clouds of smoke billow above the market in Lagos (AP)

The fire started on Tuesday morning and became a major blaze by midday.

Officials have not yet said if any people were injured in the fire or commented on the cause of the blaze.

Flames tore through the building (AP)

One witness said on Twitter: "A building is currently being engulfed by fire inside Balogun market, properties are being destroyed and the fire has currently extended to buildings around."

Another witness described how the fire was "expanding".

Smoke pours over the busy shopping area (via REUTERS)

The Balogun market sprawls across many blocks on Lagos Island.

It is well known as one of the best places in Lagos to buy colourful Nigerian fabrics, apparel and shoes.

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