Containerised shops were destroyed on Tuesday following an explosion involving a diesel-laden tanker behind the Alake Sports Complex in Ijeja, Abeokuta.
The explosion occurred just behind the fence separating the Sports Complex from the Ijeja community, triggering panic among nearby residents.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Fire Service representative, Mr Abiodun Owolabi, said the blast was caused by a sudden ignition during discharge.
“The tanker, registration number LND 898 YJ, caught fire while discharging diesel into a storage facility within the Sports Complex,” Owolabi stated.
He added that, “The diesel was being pumped using a petrol-powered machine, which likely caused the ignition.”
The tanker driver sustained injuries and is receiving treatment. No fatalities were recorded, though some shops were affected by the fire.
“We responded immediately and were able to prevent further damage or casualties,” Owolabi said.
