At least 15 people were injured following a gas explosion in Ijora Badia, a densely populated community in Lagos State, on Sunday evening.
The explosion occurred around 5:00 p.m. and was traced to a leaking 25-kilogramme gas cylinder inside a small shop located within a bungalow. The building reportedly contained several self-contained apartments and additional shops, making the area highly susceptible to widespread damage.
Witnesses said the loud blast sent panic through the neighborhood, as residents fled their homes and shop owners scrambled for safety. One resident, Mr. Kabiru Ahmed, who witnessed the event, described the situation as chaotic. He noted that while the destruction was severe, no lives were lost in the incident.
Firefighters and emergency services rushed to the location shortly after the explosion. The Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, confirmed that the fire caused by the explosion was brought under control and fully extinguished.
She also noted that gas cylinders near the scene were safely removed to prevent further danger.
“Many received first aid on-site, while others were taken to the hospital for further treatment. Thankfully, none of the injuries are life-threatening,” Adeseye said.
The victims included both adults and children, with varying degrees of burns. Authorities say the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak, which may have been ignited by an open flame nearby—possibly from cooking or electrical sparks within the crowded building.
Emergency responders from several state agencies were present at the site, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Ambulance Service, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and officers of the Nigeria Police.
Investigations into the exact cause of the incident are ongoing, and authorities are urging residents and business owners to handle gas cylinders with extreme caution, especially in crowded or residential areas.
