A gas explosion occurred on Sunday afternoon at the Orisunmibare Market in the Orile-Iganmu area of Lagos State, sparking panic among traders and residents. The incident, which happened around 2:13 p.m., was traced to a gas retail outlet containing multiple cylinders of varying sizes.
According to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the quick intervention of firefighters from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju stations prevented what could have been a large-scale disaster, as flames threatened to spread to adjoining shops within the busy market.
“Swift responses from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju Fire Stations brought the situation under control, preventing further escalation after several shops were affected,” said Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, in a statement issued Sunday evening.
Adeseye confirmed that no lives were lost, though one person sustained a minor hand injury. She added that firefighting operations had been completed and the market area declared safe.
“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 said.
Adeseye assured the public that the agency remains vigilant and fully prepared to handle emergencies across the state, stressing that regular safety inspections at gas outlets will continue.
Tanker Spill Averted on Apapa-Oshodi Expressway
In a separate incident earlier on Sunday, a 33,000-litre petrol tanker (registration number AAB-942YC) spilled its contents along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, near the Berger Car Depot, following a collision with a Mercedes-Benz Jeep (LSR-606HX) and seven other vehicles displayed for sale.
The tanker, which was reportedly en route from the Apapa Terminal, caused a massive fuel spill that could have triggered an explosion but was quickly contained by emergency responders.
“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,” Adeseye said.
She confirmed that fire crews from the Ajegunle and Ijegun-Egba stations were deployed to the scene, where recovery operations extended into Sunday evening.
Safety Appeal
The Lagos Fire Service reiterated its appeal to residents, fuel handlers, and business operators to adhere strictly to safety regulations and report early signs of leaks or irregularities in gas and fuel storage to prevent future disasters.
“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,” Adeseye stated.
