Explosion Rocks Alake Sports Complex, Several Shops Destroyed

OGUN, Nigeria - An explosion involving a diesel-filled tanker behind the Alake Sports Complex in Ijeja, Abeokuta led to the destruction of containerised shops On Tuesday. 

The blast occurred just behind the fence that separates the Sports Complex from the Ijeja community, causing alarm among nearby residents.

A representative from the fire service, Abiodun Owolabi, reported that the explosion was triggered by a sudden ignition during the discharge process.

"The tanker with registration number LND 898 YJ ignited while diesel was being discharged into a storage facility within the Sports Complex," Owolabi explained. 

He noted that the diesel was being transferred using a petrol-powered machine, which likely led to the ignition.

The tanker driver suffered injuries and is currently receiving treatment. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, although several shops were impacted by the fire.

 "We acted promptly and managed to minimize further damage or injuries," added  Owolabi.