Gas Explosion Sparks Fire at Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zone, Triggers Panic Near OGITECH Hostels
A fire outbreak was recorded on Sunday at the mattress production section of the Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ) in Igbesa, Ogun State, sparking panic among residents and students in nearby hostels.
PulseNets learnt that the incident was triggered by a gas explosion at a foam-manufacturing company operating within the industrial park. The explosion reportedly sent thick plumes of smoke into the air, causing fear and confusion, particularly around the Obanla axis where several student hostels are located.
A video obtained by PulseNets showed students fleeing their hostels as dense smoke billowed across the skyline, forcing many to abandon their belongings in haste.
Speaking to PulseNets, an eyewitness, Kuwhede Vincent, a student of the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, said the situation escalated rapidly after a loud blast was heard.
“It happened around 8 a.m. At first, we noticed smoke, and then fire started coming out from the company,” Vincent said.
“The company is very close to my hostel. I don’t think any hostel was affected, but we had to carry our bags because nobody knew what could happen next.”
Vincent further told PulseNets that emergency responders were quickly mobilised to prevent the fire from spreading.
“The fire service arrived early and were already working to control the situation,” he added.
Reacting to the development, the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of OGITECH, Ilo Fadilu Temitope, issued a statement signed by the union’s Secretary, Moses Josephine, and Public Relations Officer, Segbetin Sunday. The statement, obtained by PulseNets, urged students to remain calm while observing strict safety precautions.
“The attention of the Students’ Union Government has been drawn to reports of a fire outbreak at the Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ), Igbesa, which is in close proximity to some student hostels around the Obanla axis,” the statement read.
“While relevant authorities are reportedly responding, the Union considers it necessary to prioritise the safety and well-being of all students.”
The union further advised students, particularly those residing around the Obanla axis, to avoid the affected area and remain alert.
“Students are advised to stay calm but vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement towards the fire scene, remain indoors where it is safe, keep doors and windows closed if there is smoke, and switch off electrical appliances and gas sources as a precaution,” the statement added.
As of the time of filing this report, no official explanation had been issued regarding the precise cause of the explosion.
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When contacted by PulseNets, the Commissioner for Environment in Ogun State, Ola Oresanya, acknowledged the report and assured that action would be taken.
“Thank you for the information. I will work on it immediately,” Oresanya told PulseNets.
