Tension erupted at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, on Saturday following a fire outbreak at the institution’s Girls’ Hostel, which threw students and staff into confusion.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire started in one of the hostel rooms before spreading quickly to other parts of the building, fueled by the dry weather and overcrowded conditions. Thick smoke and flames engulfed the facility, forcing students to scamper to safety and abandon their belongings.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours, caused chaos on campus as security personnel battled to keep distressed students and sympathizers away from the danger zone. The Ondo State Fire Service was promptly alerted, and fire trucks were deployed to the scene to contain the blaze.
Officials of the fire service confirmed their response efforts, appealing to students and staff to remain calm and keep off the affected area to allow firefighters unhindered access.
As of press time, no casualties had been reported, though the extent of property damage is yet to be ascertained. Firefighters are still working to ensure the flames do not spread to adjoining buildings within the Polytechnic premises.
While the management of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic has yet to issue an official statement, many students expressed worry over the destruction of their personal belongings and the damage to hostel facilities.
The incident, now largely under control, has been described as one of the most severe emergencies witnessed in the institution in recent years.