There was panic on Tuesday at the Alake Sports Complex in Ijeja, Abeokuta—one of the venues for the ongoing 2024 National Sports Festival—following a gas explosion that briefly disrupted activities.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when a gas delivery truck supplying fuel to the venue’s generating set suddenly caught fire. The resulting blaze triggered a wave of fear among athletes, officials, and spectators present at the scene.
Emergency response teams swiftly intervened and successfully brought the situation under control. No casualties were reported.
Despite the brief scare, activities at the complex—including handball, squash, and badminton—resumed shortly after, with organisers assuring participants of their safety.
The incident comes amid heightened attention on the festival, which was officially declared open by President Bola Tinubu, with calls for integrity and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
