Pregnant woman, several others sustain serious injuries as gas explosion rocks Lagos community

The fire that resulted from the explosion destroyed properties nearby.

Eight people, alongside a yet-to-be identified pregnant woman have suffered serious injuries following a gas explosion that occurred at Alaba Lane, Alayabiagba Community, in the Ajegunle-Apapa area of Lagos State.

Reports state that the incident occured at about 12:39 pm on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

According to the Head of Public Education, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Amodu Shakiru, who spoke to a correspondent of Pulse News, preliminary inquiry revealed that a possible leak in one of the gas cylinders that were traded in the area broke a high-tension cable and started a fire.

This led to the destruction of four commercial tricyles, six locked-up shops, and a portion of a bungalow building.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that several various gas cylinders traded within the neighbourhood have one triggered by a 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,” Shakiru said.

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

Shakiru also stated that the pregnant woman and other victims who sustianed injuries were receiving treatment at the Gbagada Burn & Trauma Centre and Ajeromi General Hospital following initial care provided by the Lagos State Ambulance Service.

He added, “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.”