The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority and China-Africa Investment FZC, managers of the Ogun Free Trade Zone in Igbesa, Ogun State, on Monday clarified that the fire incident recorded in the zone on Sunday was not caused by a gas explosion and did not affect any residents.

They also confirmed that no casualties were recorded and that investigations into the incident are ongoing.

This clarification was contained in a statement signed by the and China-Africa Investment FZ, Mr Steve Makanjuola, on behalf of NEPZA and made available to journalists on Monday.

The statement explained that the fire broke out at Good Mattress FZE, one of the companies operating within the free trade zone, on Sunday.

It said the fire was successfully contained through the swift and professional response of the Ogun Free Trade Zone’s internal fire service team, working closely with the state fire service and other private companies that have established partnerships with the zone

The management stated, “This timely intervention successfully prevented the fire from spreading to adjoining enterprises.

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

It was earlier reported that one of the companies in the free trade zone was engulfed by fire at about 8 a.m. on Sunday.

Media reports had quoted some residents as saying the fire was caused by a gas explosion at a foam-producing company within the industrial park.

The management however said, “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.”