Palpable fear and panic gripped the residents of Ilese, Ijebu –Ode, Ogun State on the morning of Thursday, 14 August, 2025 after a powerful explosion rocked Sappers Barracks situated in the community, reports thegazellenews.com.
The incident, it was gathered took place at a mini store within the barracks, is believed to have been caused by the detonation of bombs stored in the military armory, according to preliminary reports.
According to an eyewitness accounts, the explosion may have been triggered by a heat buildup in the storage facility, though official confirmation is still pending.
A statement posted on X by @sfojoemmanuela, representing local authorities or a related entity, noted: “We wish to inform the public that an explosion occurred on August 14, 2025, at the Ilese Army Barracks in Ijebu, Ogun State.
The blast caused significant alarm in the surrounding Ilese community, with residents reporting a loud bang that reverberated through the area.
Confirming the incident, on Thursday, 14 August, 2025, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, , said the explosion led to “limited” fire incident that affected the storage building.
Anele said no lives were lost from the incident.
“Specifically, in the early hours of today, 14 August 2025, a localized explosion occurred within one of the storage buildings of the 42 Engineers Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron leading to a limited fire outbreak,” the statement reads.
“Swift intervention by troops of the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, working closely with the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, ensured that the fire was quickly contained.
“Importantly, no lives were lost, and no injuries were sustained. The structural damage was confined to the affected building and some stored materials.
“We urge residents of Ilese and the adjoining communities to remain calm and go about their normal activities.
“The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with relevant agencies, has commenced a thorough investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the incident and to prevent a recurrence.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all its personnel as well as members of neighbouring communities.”
