A powerful explosion jolted residents of Ilese, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, in the early hours of Thursday following an incident at the Sappers Barracks.
The blast, which occurred at a mini store within the military facility, is suspected to have been triggered by bombs stored in the armory, according to preliminary accounts. Eyewitnesses believe a buildup of heat in the storage unit may have caused the detonation, though an official cause is yet to be confirmed.
A statement posted on X by @sfojoemmanuela read: “We wish to inform the public that an explosion occurred on August 14, 2025, at the Ilese Army Barracks in Ijebu, Ogun State. The incident took place at a mini store within the barracks and, according to eyewitness accounts, may have been caused by heat buildup.”
The loud blast sent shockwaves across the Ilese community, sparking panic among residents.
Confirming the incident, Nigerian Army spokesperson, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, said: “A localised explosion occurred within a storage building of the 42 Engineers Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron, causing a limited fire outbreak.”
Troops from the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, working alongside the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, swiftly moved in to contain the blaze. “No lives were lost, and no injuries were recorded. Damage was limited to the affected building and some stored materials,” Anele added.
She further disclosed that a detailed assessment was ongoing to determine the extent of material loss, urging residents of Ilese and surrounding communities to remain calm and go about their normal activities.
The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with relevant agencies, has commenced a full investigation to uncover the cause of the explosion and put measures in place to prevent a recurrence.
(NAN)
