Last Tuesday, a significant fire broke out in a portion of the Directorate of Students Affairs building at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, resulting in the loss of assets valued at millions of naira.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Wale Balogun, OOU’s Acting Deputy Registrar of Corporate Affairs, revealed that the blaze, which erupted during the early hours, completely destroyed the academic gowns used by students for matriculation and graduation ceremonies.
“On Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, a severe fire incident occurred within the Directorate of Students Affairs building at the university’s Main Campus, causing extensive damage to valuable items worth millions of naira,” the statement detailed.
“The fire ravaged the section where the students’ academic and convocation gowns were stored, leading to their total destruction. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported,” Dr. Balogun added.
The swift intervention of the Vice Chancellor, alongside university staff and personnel from the Works Directorate, was credited with containing the situation and preventing further damage.
In response to this unfortunate event, the university administration has promptly established an investigative committee led by a respected professor to probe the incident thoroughly.
The committee’s mandate includes identifying both the immediate triggers and underlying causes of the fire, as well as other relevant aspects.
“The purpose of this investigation is to collect detailed information, pinpoint contributing factors, and produce a comprehensive report with recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences,” the announcement stated.
Members of the university community are encouraged to participate in the inquiry by submitting written observations or suggestions concerning the fire and campus safety. Contributions can be sent via WhatsApp at 08056066643 or emailed to [email protected].
Hard copy submissions are also welcome and should be addressed to The Secretary, Ad-Hoc Committee on Fire Incident, c/o Registrar’s Office, Central Administrative (TetFund) Building, Main Campus, Ago-Iwoye. The university values all input as it works to strengthen safety measures and maintain a secure environment for everyone.
Furthermore, staff members have been reminded to maintain vigilance and prioritize safety in their daily routines, supporting ongoing efforts to safeguard the campus community.
Both staff and students are urged to ensure that all electrical equipment is unplugged and lights are switched off before leaving offices and lecture halls each day, regardless of power availability. Such simple precautions can play a crucial role in minimizing fire risks.
