The Management of Fresh FM Nigeria Limited has confirmed that a fire broke out at its head office located at Challenge, Ibadan, on Friday night, leaving behind extensive damage to its broadcasting facilities.
In an official statement signed by Samson Akindele, Group Head of Corporate Affairs, Fresh FM Nigeria and Yinka Ayefele Limited, the management confirmed that the inferno devastated the stations’ core operational facilities.
“The studios of Fresh 105.9 and Blast 98.3 were badly burnt, with proximal offices like the newsroom, the transmitter/server room and several equipment that got razed during active operations,” the statement read.
Eyewitnesses revealed that despite frantic efforts by staff and residents to contain the fire with in-house extinguishers, the flames proved uncontrollable.
“All efforts to fight the fire, before the arrival of the professional firefighters, proved abortive because of the strength of the inferno,” the statement explained.
The extent of the losses is yet to be quantified, as many critical broadcast equipment and infrastructure were completely destroyed.
The cause of the fire also remains unknown at the time of filing this report.
Fresh FM’s management expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nigerians who rallied around to help during the emergency.
“We heartily appreciate everyone good-spirited Nigerians who joined us in fighting the inferno. From the residents around our studio complex who were the first responders, to passersby and the officials of the Oyo Fire Service, we appreciate everyone for their assistance during the emergency,” Akindele stated.
Founded by music legend Yinka Ayefele (MON), Fresh FM Nigeria is one of the most influential private radio networks in South-West Nigeria, with a reputation for quality broadcasting and strong community engagement.
The Ibadan station, being the flagship, has been the hub of its operations and a cultural landmark for listeners in Oyo State and beyond.
The fire outbreak has drawn widespread sympathy across media and entertainment circles, as stakeholders await further details on the station’s next steps and possible recovery efforts.
