A gas explosion occurred on Sunday at Orisunmibare Market in the Orile-Iganmu area of Lagos State. Fortunately, men of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service quickly brought the situation under control.
The PUNCH reported that the blast, which took place around 2:13 p.m., originated from a gas retail outlet housing multiple cylinders of different sizes.
According to Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, firefighters from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju stations acted swiftly, preventing the explosion from spreading to neighboring shops.
“Swift responses from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju Fire Stations brought the situation under control, preventing further escalation after several shops were affected,” Adeseye said.
She confirmed that no lives were lost, although one individual sustained a minor hand injury.
“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.
Adeseye also reassured the public that the agency remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent fire outbreaks and respond to emergencies throughout Lagos.
“The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service continues to maintain vigilance to ensure public safety and the swift management of emergency situations across the state,” she said.
Earlier on Sunday, a separate incident unfolded when a 33,000-litre Premium Motor Spirit tanker, bearing registration number AAB-942YC, spilled its fuel along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway near Berger Car Depot.
The tanker, reportedly en route from the Apapa Terminal outward Lagos, collided with a Mercedes-Benz Jeep (LSR-606HX) and seven other stationary vehicles displayed for sale.
Adeseye stated that the prompt response of her team prevented the spill from turning into a major disaster.
“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,” she stated.
Fire crews from the Ajegunle and Ijegun-Egba stations were deployed to the scene, with recovery operations continuing into Sunday evening.
