23 buildings, 15 vehicles burnt in Lagos gas explosion
By Eniola Idris
No fewer than 23 buildings and 15 vehicles were destroyed following a gas explosion that occurred at Iju Ishaga area of Lagos State Thursday.
The Lagos State Emergency Agency also said about 30 people were injured as a result of the explosion.
Spokesman of the agency, Mr. Nosa Okunbor, in the statement said 20 adult males and 10 adult females were injured.
He said: “On arrival at the scene, it was observed that there was a gas explosion.
“Further investigation revealed that a truck had a lone accident and exploded.
“The impact of the explosion affected adjoining buildings and several vehicles were burnt.
“It was confirmed that a 30 tonnes LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Tanker being operated by Mana Gas Limited was involved in the explosion which injured 30 persons – 20 adult males and 10 adult females.
“A total of 23 buildings and 15 vehicles were destroyed. The disaster losses are two residential buildings, church – one, event centre – one, commercial buildings – four, market- one (consisting of 15 shanty shops), cars – 11, mini trucks – two, bus – one, heavy- duty truck – one.
“Sixteen people were found to have serious injuries and were taken to various hospitals, including Iju water works clinic. Two people out of the above 16 were referred to General Hospital. They are in critical conditions.
Among the buildings affected are X and Y Event Centre, a church, and a plank market”.
Meanwhile, the Ag. Head, Lagos Fire & Rescue Service, Mrs Margaret Adeseye said it was discovered that a 23 tonnes gas truck meant to service Manna Gas Refilling Plant accidentally skidded into drainage system, hitting its discharging valve in the process causing leakage of it contents that quickly saturated the environment.
She further stated that it erupted in explosions on meeting an ignition, which subsequently resulted in Fire.
“The ensuing Fire was however curtailed from reaching the Gas Plant that may have worsen the situation but not after severely damaging S & Y Event Center, a block making industry, two residential bungalows, two churches, some shanties at a nearby market and 15 various brands of vehicles while spreading to adjoining Kayode Street”, she said.
