Explosion rocks Lagos community, pregnant woman, others injured — properties destroyed

• The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday at about 12:39 p.m.
• The Head, Public Education, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Amodu Shakiru, confirmed the explosion to newsmen.

Residents of Ajegunle-Apapa area of Lagos State were enveloped by trepidation and anguish after a gas explosion left a trail of devastation in its wake.

The explosion, which happened at Alaba Lane, Alayabiagba Community, left at least nine persons, including a pregnant woman, with varying degrees of injuries.

The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday at about 12:39 p.m.

The Head, Public Education, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Amodu Shakiru, confirmed the explosion to newsmen.

According to him, preliminary findings showed that a possible leakage from a number of different gas cylinders that were traded in the area triggered the explosion.

He stated that the leaking cylinder tripped off a high-tension cable and ignited a fire.

He added that the fire destroyed four commercial tricycles, six lock-up stores, and a portion of a bungalow building.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that a number of various gas cylinders traded within the neighborhood have one triggered by a suspectable leakage leading to the snapping of a high-tension cable and resultant fire.

“Four commercial tricycles, six lock-up shops, and a bungalow part of the properties were razed down while salvaging adjoining structures, including a major fuel service station.

He stated that the Federal Fire Service, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and the fire stations in Ajegunle and Sari-Iganmu quickly quel the incident.

Shakiru disclosed that the pregnant woman and the other victims are currently receiving treatment at the Gbagada Burn & Trauma Center and Ajeromi General Hospital following initial care provided by the Lagos State Ambulance Service.

“However, nine people reportedly suffered different degrees of burn injury, including a pregnant woman, children, and adults, male and female, who are recuperating at the Ajeromi General Hospital and Gbagada Burnt & Trauma Centre after some first aid by the Lagos State Ambulance Service.

“The incident was curtailed in record time through the combined efforts of the Ajegunle and Sari-Iganmu Fire Stations of the LSFRS with the compliment of the Federal Fire Service.”