Ijebu Ode, Ogun State — A powerful explosion jolted residents of Ijebu Ode early Thursday morning after a blast at the Sappers Barracks in Ilese sent plumes of smoke into the sky and set parts of the military facility ablaze.
The incident occurred in a mini store within the barracks, with preliminary reports suggesting the detonation of bombs stored in the armory. Eyewitnesses believe a heat buildup in the storage facility may have triggered the explosion, though official confirmation is still pending.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), a local representative account, @sfojoemmanuela, confirmed the August 14 blast, noting that it took place “at a mini store within the barracks” and was possibly linked to overheating.
The loud bang was heard across the Ilese community, sending waves of panic among residents.
Spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, confirmed the explosion in an official statement, stressing that no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded.
According to Anele, a “localised explosion” occurred within a storage building of the 42 Engineers Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron, sparking a limited fire outbreak.
Swift response from troops of the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, aided by the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, quickly contained the blaze, preventing further damage.
“Damage was limited to the affected building and some stored materials,” Anele said, adding that a detailed assessment was underway to determine the extent of material loss.
She urged residents of Ilese and neighbouring communities to remain calm, assuring them that the Nigerian Army was working with relevant agencies to investigate the cause of the explosion and prevent a recurrence.
“The Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its personnel and members of neighbouring communities,” she added.
