Ogun Free Trade Zone Fire Not Caused By Gas Explosion — Management

The management of the Ogun Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ) in Igbesa, Ogun State, has dismissed claims that Sunday’s fire outbreak within the zone was caused by a gas explosion, insisting that no lives were lost and no residential areas were affected.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and China-Africa Investment FZC, which jointly manage the free trade zone, said the incident occurred at Good Mattress FZE, one of the companies operating within the industrial park.

The statement, signed by Mr Steve Makanjuola on behalf of both organisations, noted that the fire was swiftly brought under control by the zone’s internal fire service team, working in collaboration with the Ogun State Fire Service and other partner emergency responders.

According to the management, the prompt intervention prevented the fire from spreading to neighbouring enterprises and eliminated any wider risk within the zone.

“There were no casualties recorded, and the incident was effectively de-escalated before it could pose any wider risk,” the statement said.

THE WHISTLER reports that the fire had earlier sparked concern after videos circulated on social media showing thick black smoke billowing into the sky as flames engulfed parts of the factory, leading to panic among nearby residents.

Some reports had suggested that the incident was triggered by a gas explosion at a foam-producing factory and had spread to surrounding residential areas.

However, the OGFTZ management refuted these claims, stressing that the fire did not extend beyond the affected facility.

The management disclosed that investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing and assured that verified findings would be communicated through official channels.

“Contrary to reports circulating online, the incident did not extend to any residential areas, nor was it a gas explosion.

“The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and verified findings will be communicated through official channels in due course,” the statement added.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to operating the free trade zone in full compliance with all safety, legal and regulatory standards.