The number of victims from the gas explosion that rocked Calabar, Cross River State, on Saturday has risen to 60, the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, has confirmed.
Dr. Ayuk made the disclosure during a visit to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital on Sunday, where the injured are receiving medical care.
“We arrived at the Accident and Emergency Department of UCTH, where about 60 victims of the gas explosion along Edibe Edibe, Calabar South, are currently being treated,” Dr. Ayuk said. “Our visit was to assess their conditions and ensure that everyone receives the care they need.”
Earlier, the State Governor, Bassey Otu, had reported 30 victims when he visited the scene on Saturday and assured that the government would cover hospital expenses for those affected.
Dr. Ayuk added that patients with minor burn injuries would be transferred to the General Hospital, Calabar, to reduce pressure on the teaching hospital and provide more efficient care.
The Health Commissioner was accompanied by Mr. Ekpeyong Akiba, Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, and was received by the Chief Medical Director of UCTH, Prof. Ikpeme Ikpeme, who briefed the team on the victims’ condition and ongoing management.
The explosion, reportedly caused by a gas leak at a local gas plant, also affected several nearby houses in the Edibe Edibe area, injuring numerous residents. The state government has activated a coordinated response to ensure timely treatment for all victims.
“This incident highlights the need for continued safety measures in industrial and residential areas,” Dr. Ayuk said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to monitoring and managing the aftermath of the tragedy.
