About twenty shops and five houses were destroyed by late night fire at Obanla area of Akure, Ondo state capital.
The inferno was caused by a mini gas station located in the area.
Property worth millions of naira caved in leaving many in total shock and disbelief.
Most of the houses affected were old buildings constructed many years ago.
Those affected are yet to come to terms of what has befallen them.
The late arrival of officials of the State Fire Service, many said, was responsible for the extent of the damage.
By the time help arrived, the fire had grown to a raging inferno and all that was left was debris as occupants of the affected houses watched helplessly.
