Ten-year-old boy, 4 others die as LPG retailing centre explode in Lagos

IBRAHIM QUADRI

Tragedy occurred on Tuesday as not less than five persons feared dead after a gas exploded  at 21, Ojekunle Street, Ladipo, Mushin area of the State.

Daily Champion learnt that the gas cylinders were stored on an open ground in shanties where there was an explosion.

As of press time, rscue team had been deployed to the area to put the situation under control.

In a statement signed by the Lagos State Emergency Management (LASEMA), it noted that “The Agency’s Response Team, Eagle Squad at Cappa have been deployed to a fire outbreak at Ojekunke Street, Ladipo Mushin today, Tuesday, 16th 2021.

“On getting to the scene, the Response Team discovered an open land with shanties and shops where gas cylinders are stacked.

“Further investigation revealed that the gas ignited and exploded.

“However, the  Agency’s Team and its Fire Unit and Lagos State Fire & Rescue Service and Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, LNSC, have been able to put the fire under control and the fire men are blanketing the affected area.”

The DG LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu appeals to all residents in the area to remain calm and be cautious of their surroundings as the responders are working better together to subdue the fire.

Also in a release by Director, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs Margaret Adeseye states that “the Gas incident which was reported at 08:42 hours Tuesday morning via the State emergency reporting platform was swiftly responded to by a combination of the State first and secondary responders.

“On arrival at the scene, it was discovered that it is an open space used for several activities including a beer parlour, mechanic workshop, spare parts sale and gas shop amongst others while housing a makeshift structure.

“Preliminary investigations to establish the fact of the incident continue and further discovery will be made public.”