A gas cylinder explosion occurred in the Ijora Badia area of Lagos on Tuesday, leaving 20 individuals injured, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos Operations Office (LOO).
The explosion took place at No. 12 Amusu Street, within the Apapa Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA). It was triggered by a 25-kilogram gas cylinder that began leaking inside a small retail shop that also stored five similar-sized cylinders.
The confined space, coupled with the surrounding heat, caused gas to accumulate, which eventually ignited in a powerful explosion, followed by a fire.
NEMA responded quickly after receiving a distress call and began containment and rescue operations. Fourteen individuals sustained severe burns, while six others suffered minor burn injuries.
All the victims were promptly evacuated to nearby hospitals for immediate treatment.
In a statement, NEMA confirmed that its emergency responders, working alongside the Apapa Iganmu LCDA team, carried out a detailed on-site damage assessment and safety inspection to prevent any further risks.
The emergency team also visited the hospitals where the injured were being treated to monitor their conditions and provide assistance.
NEMA has urged both residents and businesses to follow strict safety guidelines when storing and handling gas cylinders, particularly given the ongoing heatwave.
The agency has also announced that an investigation into the cause of the gas leak and any potential lapses in safety procedures is currently underway.