The Nigerian Army has confirmed the prompt containment of a minor explosion and fire outbreak earlier today at Ilese Barracks, Ijebu-Ode, reassuring the public that there were no casualties and the situation is under control.
In a statement released by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the incident occurred in the early hours of 14th August 2025 within one of the storage buildings of the 42 Engineers Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron. According to the statement, the quick intervention of troops from the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, working with the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, ensured that the fire was swiftly brought under control and thus preventing further damage and possible escalation.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele noted that while structural damage was confined to the affected building and some stored materials, no lives were lost and no injuries were sustained. She added that a detailed assessment is underway to ascertain the extent of material loss.
The Nigerian Army appealed to residents of Ilese and surrounding communities to remain calm and assured them that, alongside relevant agencies, a thorough investigation has commenced to determine the cause of the incident and prevent a recurrence.
The statement further said that the safety and security of the Nigerian Army personnel and the wellbeing of host communities remains at the heart of their operations.
