By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ibadan, Oyo State – Saturday, August 16, 2025
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Saturday paid a sympathy visit to Fresh FM 105.9 Ibadan, following a devastating fire outbreak that gutted parts of the popular radio station on Friday night.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, August 14, 2025, reportedly started in the early hours of the evening from the station’s studio area, destroying vital broadcasting equipment before it was brought under control by men of the Oyo State Fire Service. While no life was lost, the damage was described as “significant” by staff of the station.
The Merit Newspaper reports that during his visit, Governor Makinde was received by the station’s founder and renowned gospel musician, Dr. Yinka Ayefele (MON). The governor commiserated with him and the entire Fresh FM team, describing the station as a “resilient brand” that had become a household name not only in Oyo State but across Nigeria.
“Fresh FM has over the years stood as a voice of the people, a platform of entertainment and information, and an inspiration to many. What happened yesterday is indeed unfortunate, but I have no doubt that this brand will rise from the ashes, stronger than ever,” Makinde said.
The governor also praised Ayefele’s courage and perseverance, recalling how he had overcome personal and professional challenges in the past, particularly the 2018 demolition of parts of the Fresh FM building under a previous administration, which sparked public outrage.
Ayefele, while receiving the governor, expressed gratitude for his swift visit and solidarity. He assured listeners and fans of the station that Fresh FM would resume full operations soon.
“This is a setback, but not the end. Fresh FM is for the people, and by God’s grace, we will be back on air fully in no time,” Ayefele said, thanking the Oyo State government, staff, and members of the public for their support.
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Established in 2015, Fresh FM Ibadan quickly rose to prominence for its blend of music, talk shows, and incisive news coverage, becoming one of the most listened-to private radio stations in Southwest Nigeria. Its success inspired the opening of sister stations in Abeokuta, Lagos, Ado-Ekiti, and Osogbo.
Friday’s fire incident has drawn an outpouring of support from across the country, with many listeners, entertainers, and media professionals sending goodwill messages to Ayefele and the Fresh FM family.
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The Oyo State Fire Service said investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire.
