A devastating gas explosion occurred in the Orile Iganmu community of Lagos on Sunday, leaving one person injured and many shops damaged.
According to eyewitnesses, the blast, which happened around 2p.m. at a small shop in the Orisunbare market, was reportedly caused by a leaking gas cylinder in one of the shops.
The impact of the explosion was severe, with several nearby shops damaged.
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Although emergency responders had quickly arrived at the scene to provide assistance, at least one person reportedly suffered severe burns in the blast.
“I was near the market when I heard a loud explosion,” said a local resident. “I rushed outside to see people running and screaming. It was chaotic.”
Preliminary findings suggested that improper handling of the gas cylinder might have contributed to the leak and subsequent blast.
The explosion had raised concerns about the safety of gas usage in the state, with residents calling for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent similar incidents.
Margaret Adeseye, Controller General, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, confirmed the incident, saying that the the Service responded to a gas explosion at Orisunmibare Market, off Baale Street, Orile-Iganmu, within the Coker LCDA area of Lagos.
According to the state Fire and Rescue Service boss, the explosion occurred at a gas retail outlet containing multiple cylinders of varying sizes.
“Swift responses from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju Fire Stations brought the situation under control, preventing further escalation after several shops were affected.
“Operations at the market have been concluded. No fatalities were recorded in either incident, except for one minor hand injury sustained at the gas retail shop,” she added.
She disclosed that in a similar incident the Service also responded to an incident involving a 33,000-litre Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker with registration number AAB-942YC, which accidentally spilled its contents along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, near the Berger Car Depot.
“The tanker, which was en route from the Apapa Terminal outward Lagos, collided with a Mercedes-Benz Jeep (registration number LSR-606HX) and seven (7) other stationary vehicles of various brands that were displayed for sale. Prompt intervention by the Fire and Rescue Service prevented the spill from escalating into a secondary incident. The remaining fuel is currently being transferred to another tanker, while efforts are ongoing to recover the damaged vehicles and conclude operations safely. The Ajegunle and Ijegun-Egba Fire Crews are fully on top of the situation.” she added
