Machine explosion sparks fire at Ibadan factory, massive losses recorded

By Adejayan Gbenga –

A fire outbreak caused by a machine explosion has destroyed properties worth millions of naira at Shril-Balaj Industrial Limited, located in the Olopomeji area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, affecting the factory’s recycling section where a large quantity of disused tyres was stored. The resulting blaze led to significant damage across the facility.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, said the agency received a distress call around 7:07 a.m. and responded promptly to the scene.

“The fire incident was a result of the explosion of a running machine, which ignited nearby combustibles and set the section ablaze,” Akinwande explained.

He added that firefighters were able to contain the inferno before it could spread to other parts of the facility, thereby preventing even greater losses.

No casualties were reported as of the time of filing this report. Officials say a full assessment of the damage is still underway.