A tragic gas explosion struck the Bioku-Alaadun area of Ibadan, Ona Ara Local Government Area, Oyo State, on Friday night, leaving several people feared dead.
According to eyewitness accounts, the explosion occurred while a tanker was offloading gas at a retail outlet. The blast reportedly killed the owner of the gas shop and others who were close to the scene at the time.
Fire Service Confirms Incident
The General Manager of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Yemi Akinyinka, confirmed the devastating incident, adding that emergency responders had already been deployed to the area.
Akinyinka explained that although casualties had been recorded, the agency was still compiling full details of the victims and the extent of the damage.
His statement reads:
“Our men are there; they are still working. Yes, the incident happened. They were discharging gas, and there was an explosion. Information on the casualties is still being gathered.”
Residents in Shock as Emergency Operations Continue
The explosion caused panic across the Bioku-Alaadun community, with residents scrambling for safety as flames and thick smoke engulfed the area. Emergency teams are currently battling to fully contain the fire and prevent further damage.
Authorities are expected to release a detailed update once investigations and rescue operations are completed.
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