Tension gripped residents of Ilese and surrounding communities on Thursday morning after an explosion inside a military storage facility sparked a fire at the Ilese Barracks.
The blast occurred within the premises of the 42nd Engineer Brigade Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Squadron, sending shockwaves through the area and damaging parts of the barracks.
According to Army spokesperson Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the explosion was “localised” to one storage building. Quick action by troops of the 12 Field Engineer Regiment, working alongside the Ijebu-Ode Fire Service, brought the flames under control before they could spread further.
“No lives were lost, and no injuries were recorded. Damage was limited to the affected building and some stored materials,” Anele confirmed.
The Army has begun a detailed assessment to determine the extent of material losses and has launched a full investigation into the cause of the incident.
Lt.-Col. Anele called on residents to remain calm, assuring them that military and emergency agencies were on the ground to prevent any further risk.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its personnel and neighbouring communities,” she added.
The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns in military facilities handling explosives and other sensitive materials, even as officials move to reassure the public that the situation is fully under control.
