On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Nigerians living in the busy city of Lagos experienced another gas explosion leading to the death of two individuals.
The tragic incident was confirmed by Lagos State command of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the explosion occurred at a gas retail store.
The said retail store is situated in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.
In a terse statement on his official X handle on Wednesday, Hundeyin regretted the incident.
He revealed that the explosion destroyed approximately four shops.
The police mouthpiece wrote: “It is just a week and we have recorded another gas explosion at a gas retail shop, this time in Ibeju-Lekki.
Be Safety-Conscious At All Times
“Sadly, two persons died, three persons sustained injuries and four shops got razed. Let us prevent avoidable deaths. Let us be safety-conscious at all times.”
Exactly a week ago, a gas explosion in Lagos State resulted in the injury of a pregnant woman and eight others who were victims of the unfortunate accident.
The incident occurred around the Ajegunle-Apapa area of Lagos State.
Confirming the incident, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS) attributed the explosion to a gas leakage.
The Leakage
That leakage ignited a high-tension cable, causing a fire outbreak in the area known for its gas cylinder trading activities.
“Tragically, nine individuals, including a pregnant woman and several children and adults, suffered varying degrees of burn injuries,” said the Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye.
“They received immediate medical attention from the Lagos State Ambulance Service and are currently undergoing further treatment at the Ajeromi General Hospital and Gbagada Burnt & Trauma Centre.”
The explosion damaged four commercial tricycles, six lock-up shops, and a section of a residential bungalow.
Blame Game
The frequent occurrence of gas explosion is something that should not be ignored, especially now that it has started claiming the lives of citizens.
We will not be surprised when Nigerians begin to blame the government for these deaths.
Indeed, the government may have certain roles to play in curbing these incidents, but more importantly, gas companies have a major role to play.
Also Read: Petrol Tanker Explosion: How 13 Nigerians Died In One Week
We all understand the risk associated with gas, hence, companies operating in this sector must be extremely cautious.
Regular inspection is one way to tackle this threat.
Perhaps, this is where the government should come in.
They should ensure regular inspections of these facilities.
This will help ensure the safety of citizens who patronise these companies and those who live around such facilities.
