Fresh Tragedy in Ibadan as Fire Engulfs INEC Office; No Casualties Reported
The office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ibadan Southeast Local Government Area has experienced a fire outbreak, as confirmed by Dr. Adeniran Tella, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Oyo State. The incident occurred around 10:30 am on Friday, January 26.
Although the exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, preliminary reports suggest it may have originated from a power surge. Dr. Tella assured that no casualties were recorded, and only logistical items were destroyed in the fire. He emphasized that the incident would not affect the upcoming Saki West State Constituency re-run election scheduled for February 3.
This tragic event follows recent disasters in Ibadan, including a gas explosion and a mining explosion in the Bodija area. The city has faced a series of challenges in a short span, raising concerns about safety and disaster management.
In a related development, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, visited the site of the mining explosion, where human remains were recovered. The minister urged citizens to report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods to prevent such incidents in the future.
Additionally, a private jet crash-landed at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, coming from Abuja, with about 10 persons onboard. The jet, identified as Bombardier Challenger 601-3R with registration number N580KR, missed the runway, but no casualties were reported in the incident.