A devastating fire incident in Ibadan has destroyed properties worth millions of naira, affecting both a residential building and a truck carrying palm kernel shafts on Tuesday. The two separate fires occurred in different parts of the city, prompting swift response from the Oyo State Fire Service. No lives were lost in either incident, according to officials, but the damage to property remains extensive.
The first fire broke out at a residential building located on Sabo Suya Road, Mokola, in Ibadan. The structure, described as an ancient building with six rooms, was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. Thick smoke covered the area, making initial access difficult. Despite the intensity of the blaze, no casualties were recorded, and emergency responders managed to contain the fire before it spread to neighboring properties.
The second incident occurred on Alakia Expressway, in front of a petroleum station. A truck, identified as an Iveco trailer with an unknown registration number, was carrying palm kernel shafts when it caught fire while in motion. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, but the vehicle was completely destroyed. Firefighters arrived quickly and prevented the fire from spreading to nearby fuel storage or other vehicles on the busy expressway.
Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, confirmed both incidents in a statement released on Tuesday evening. He noted that the residential building was “well alighted” upon arrival and that the fire had already consumed much of the structure. He also confirmed the truck fire, stating that the vehicle was “loaded with palm kernel shafts” and was “caught fire whilst on motion.”
Akinwande emphasized that despite the severity of the fires, no lives were lost, which he described as a positive outcome. He urged residents and commercial drivers to remain vigilant and ensure that fire safety measures are in place, especially in older buildings and vehicles carrying flammable materials. The fire service is currently reviewing both incidents to determine the root causes and prevent future occurrences.
The destruction of properties worth millions of naira highlights the need for improved fire prevention and emergency response systems in urban areas like Ibadan. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to issue safety advisories to the public. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety in both residential and commercial settings across Nigeria.
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