09 June 2013, Ibadan – There was a pipeline explosion at Olorunkemi/Alaakia village on Elebu Road in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Though, no one was killed in the explosion believed to have been caused by vandals, it was the prompt response of the state fire service that prevented possible loss of lives and property.
Despite timely arrival of fire men, it was gathered that the explosion caused a serious threat to the lives of the inhabitants in the area.
Confirming the incident, the Director of the State Fire Service, Mr. Kareem Oyekunle Gafar, said the explosion might have been caused by pipeline vandals.
According to him, due to the swampy nature of the place, it was not easily accessible.
”We had to pass the pipe supplying water along the bush to ensure the fire is put off. We brought 37,000 litres of water to the scene and we have exhausted it.’’ We have since sent another supply of water. We brought two water trucks, one was 22,000 and other was 15 litres”, he said.
The Chairman of Ido Local Government, Prof. Joseph Olowofela, said, “Though I have not confirmed the cause of the fire, I am sure it must have happened due to the activities of pipeline vandals”.
*Ola Ajayi, Vanguard