Oyo Govt Responds to Fire Outbreak at Bola-Ige Int’l Business Complex, Eight Shops Affected

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, welfare and protection of traders and their businesses following a fire outbreak at the Bola-Ige International Business Complex, New Gbagi, Ibadan, on Thursday, October 29, 2026, which was reported to the Oyo State Fire Services Agency at exactly 7:21 p.m.

The incident, which reportedly affected shops in the section of the complex between Ajegunle and Kudus areas, attracted the immediate attention of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, the management of the business complex and market leaders. The coordinated intervention of the relevant stakeholders and the Oyo State Fire Services helped contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other shops and neighbouring properties.

The Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, reiterated the importance of safeguarding lives, businesses and property, emphasising the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive trading environment across the State. Demonstrating the Ministry’s concern for the promptly mobilisation to the scene to assess the situation, engage relevant stakeholders and provide the necessary support.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Olajide Mamud Okesade, who arrived at the scene on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, offered moral support and reassurance to the affected traders while engaging with market leaders, the Fire Services and other relevant stakeholders. His presence underscored the Ministry’s commitment to standing with traders, particularly during challenging circumstances, and ensuring that their concerns receive appropriate attention.

According to the operational report of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, the initial firefighting crew, led by Assistant Chief Fire Superintendent (ACFS) Adisa Wasiu, promptly mobilised to the scene following the distress call. Upon arrival, the firefighters commenced operations and subsequently requested reinforcement from the Fire Service Headquarters. Two additional fire trucks, led by the Director of Operations, Engr. I. A. Adeleke, were deployed to provide backup support. The coordinated firefighting efforts successfully extinguished the fire and prevented it from spreading to other shops and neighbouring properties.

The Agency confirmed that eight shops were affected by the incident, while no casualty was recorded. The firefighters successfully concluded the operation, with the firefighting appliances returning safely to the station at about 11:32 p.m. The prompt intervention of the Fire Services, supported by the cooperation of market leaders, traders and the management of the complex, helped avert more extensive damage.

At the time of the incident, trading activities had largely ended for the day, with most traders preparing to return home. The electricity supply to the complex had already been disconnected in line with the established daily closing procedure. Although the actual cause of the fire has not been conclusively established, preliminary investigation by the Fire Services reportedly suggested that it may have originated from electrical sparks emanating from an inverter system installed in one of the affected shops, which allegedly ignited nearby combustible materials. This remains a preliminary finding pending further investigation by the relevant authorities.

The Oyo State Government commends the prompt and professional response of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, the management of the business complex, market leaders, traders and the Nigeria Police Force, Gbagi Divisional Headquarters, for their respective contributions to the successful management of the incident. The Government appreciates the cooperation and support of all stakeholders whose collective efforts helped contain the outbreak and protect adjoining business premises.

In a related development, the Special Adviser on Fire Services Reform and Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Hon. Dr. Moroof Adebayo Akinwande, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report fire emergencies to the Fire Service to prevent avoidable loss of lives and property. He emphasised the importance of providing and maintaining functional fire extinguishers in shops, market facilities and homes, noting that early intervention with appropriate firefighting equipment could help suppress fires before they escalate.

He further advised traders and market management to ensure that access roads and emergency routes remain free from obstructions to allow firefighting trucks and other emergency response vehicles unhindered passage during emergencies. Members of the public were also encouraged to provide clear and accurate addresses when reporting fire incidents to facilitate prompt response.

While the circumstances surrounding the outbreak and the extent of the damage are being further assessed, the Ministry of investment Trade Cooperatives and Industry assures traders of its continued attention to their welfare and the safety of the business complex.

The Oyo State Government remains committed to promoting a secure and enabling business environment where commercial activities can thrive, while ensuring that the interests and welfare of traders remain an integral part of its economic development agenda.

Oyo State Fire Services Agency Emergency Lines:
08067439223, 08054353501or 615 (Toll-Free)

E-Signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade
Hon.Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State