A fire outbreak following a gas explosion on Tuesday sparked panic and near pandemonium at the Alake Sports Complex in Ijeja, one of the major venues for the ongoing National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
According to eyewitness accounts, a gas truck supplying fuel to the complex’s generating set suddenly caught fire, sending athletes, officials, and spectators into a frenzy as flames briefly threatened the premises. Emergency responders swiftly moved in to contain the fire, which disrupted some scheduled activities at the venue.
Although the full extent of damage was unclear as of press time, no casualties had been confirmed.
In response, the Ogun State Government moved quickly to calm fears. Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that the fire stemmed from a diesel tanker and not a gas truck as initially reported. He praised the timely intervention of the state fire service and alertness of on-site officials.
“The incident this afternoon involving a gas tanker close to one of our facilities for the National Sports Festival was very unfortunate. We thank God that the fire was immediately put out to avert any casualties,” Akinmade said.
He assured participants and residents that the situation was under absolute control and reiterated the government’s commitment to the safety and success of the festival.
Despite the scare, events at the complex are expected to resume following safety assessments.
