Igbeti, Oyo State — June 7, 2025
Residents of Igbeti, a historic town in the Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State, were thrown into a state of panic on Saturday afternoon following a suspected landslide on Iyamopo Hill, a prominent rocky formation in the area.
The incident, which occurred around 3:45 p.m., began with a sudden, thunderous sound likened to an explosion. Eyewitnesses reported that the noise was quickly followed by a visible disintegration of rocks tumbling down the hillside.
Confirming the development, the Head of the Disaster Management Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, Deputy Commandant of Corps (DCC) Olasedidun A.G, said preliminary assessments suggest a natural event resembling a landslide.
“It was gathered from our officers today, the 7th of June 2025, that an activity suspected to be a landslide occurred at about 15:45 hrs in Igbeti, Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State,” Olasedidun stated.
“Observations from the scene indicate that there was an initial, sudden sound of what seemed to be an explosion on Iyamopo Hill. This was followed by a gradual collapse of rocks, which understandably caused panic among residents.”
Though no casualties or major damage have been reported as of the time of filing this report, the incident has left many residents worried about the safety of the surrounding environment, especially given the recurrence of such events. Locals say a similar occurrence happened in 2024 under similar weather conditions.
DCC Olasedidun added that the suspected landslide may have been triggered by environmental factors, particularly extreme heat. He noted that human activities, such as rock blasting or mining, are officially prohibited on Iyamopo Hill, making natural causes the more likely explanation.
“The general belief, supported by local geological assessments, is that the intense heat experienced in the region could have contributed to the expansion and eventual cracking of the rock,” he explained.
“Since no commercial blasting or excavation is permitted on the mountain, the likelihood of a man-made explosion is very low.”
Iyamopo Hill is a culturally significant landmark in Igbeti, often visited by tourists, hikers, and researchers. Its unique rock formations and panoramic views of the town have made it a symbol of pride for the local community.
Following the incident, the NSCDC and other relevant agencies have been deployed to monitor the site and ensure public safety. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm and stay away from the affected area until further geological assessments are completed.
The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA) is also expected to release an official statement after conducting an independent investigation.
As of now, the community remains on alert, hoping to gain clarity on the cause of the incident and whether similar occurrences can be prevented in the future.
