A Tuesday afternoon fire outbreak gutted sections of an OPay office along Akala Expressway in Ibadan, Oyo State, destroying property worth millions of naira.
Thick smoke and flames from the fintech company's premises drew crowds and caused temporary panic among residents, motorists, and nearby business owners.
Eyewitnesses reported the fire started suddenly and spread quickly. Some initially mistook the smoke for generator fumes before realizing the severity of the situation. “Within minutes, the fire intensified and fear gripped the area,” one onlooker stated.
Personnel from the Oyo State Fire Services Agency responded promptly, bringing the blaze under control and preventing it from spreading to adjacent buildings. Security officials cordoned off the area and managed traffic along the busy expressway during the operation.
Authorities confirmed no lives were lost and there were no serious injuries, as staff had evacuated safely. However, the fire caused extensive damage to office equipment, furniture, and documents.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Officials have assured the public that an assessment is ongoing and measures will be recommended to prevent future incidents.
OPay is expected to issue an official statement regarding the incident and continuity plans for its services in Ibadan.
The event has prompted calls from local residents and business operators for strengthened fire safety enforcement and regular inspections of commercial buildings, especially along major highways.
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