A late-night fire on Friday engulfed Music House, the iconic building housing popular gospel singer Dr. Yinka Ayefele’s Fresh FM radio station in the Challenge area of Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident, which began in the evening of August 15, sent staff and residents in the area into panic as thick smoke and flames tore through parts of the complex. Eyewitnesses described the fire as intense and called on the Oyo State Fire Service for urgent intervention to prevent total destruction.
Videos shared online showed firefighters battling the blaze with hoses, as ladders were mounted to gain access to affected sections. In one emotional post on his official social media handle, Ayefele shared a short clip of the raging fire accompanied only by a crying emoji, reflecting the shock and sadness of the moment.
The cause of the fire had not been ascertained as of the time of filing this report, and there were no immediate reports of casualties. Officials said emergency responders were able to bring the situation under control after several hours, though the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined.
Fresh FM, founded in 2015, is one of Ibadan’s most listened-to stations, broadcasting in both English and Yoruba, and has expanded its reach across southwestern Nigeria. The station is regarded as a cultural staple in Oyo State and beyond, with millions of loyal listeners who now await updates on when it will return to air.