Nigeria, May 21 -- A diesel tanker explosion near the Alake Sports Complex in Abeokuta caused panic on Tuesday, as athletes and residents in the area scampered for safety.

The complex is one of the major venues for the ongoing 2024 National Sports Festival, hosted by Ogun State.

The incident occurred in the early afternoon, sending thick smoke into the sky and briefly disrupting activities in the surrounding area.

Though the explosion happened just outside the complex, its proximity to one of the country's biggest sporting events heightened public concern.

Many had feared the fire could spread to the complex, where athletes were training and preparing for their events.

However, a swift intervention by the Ogun State Fire Service and ...