15 injured in Lagos gas explosion as fire guts residential, commercial complex

At least 15 people, including adults and children, sustained injuries following a gas explosion that rocked Ijora Badiya, a densely populated suburb of Lagos, on Sunday evening.

The incident, which occurred at about 5:00 p.m., was reportedly triggered by a leaking 25-kilogramme gas cylinder inside a mini shop located within a bungalow complex.

The structure also housed 15 self-contained rooms and seven additional shops, all of which were affected by the blast.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as flames erupted suddenly, sending plumes of smoke into the sky. One witness, Mr. Kabiru Ahmed, recounted how the explosion tore through the building, causing significant damage but miraculously resulting in no fatalities.

 “It was a loud bang, and within seconds, the fire spread. People were screaming and running. We’re just grateful no lives were lost,” Ahmed told reporters at the scene.

READ ALSO: Gas explosion in Port Harcourt leaves 18 injured

Preliminary investigations suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak—likely the result of improper handling—that was ignited by a nearby open flame.

Confirming the incident, Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, said emergency crews swiftly extinguished the blaze and secured the area.

“Fifteen individuals, including men, women, and children, sustained varying degrees of burns,” she stated. “Some were treated on-site with first aid, while others were transported to hospitals for further medical care. Thankfully, none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.”

Adeseye also confirmed that remaining gas cylinders in the affected structure were safely evacuated to prevent further danger.

Response teams from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, Lagos State Ambulance Service, and the Nigeria Police Force were all on the scene to manage the aftermath and ensure public safety.

Authorities have urged residents and business owners to observe proper safety measures when handling gas and flammable materials, warning that negligence could lead to similar incidents with far graver consequences.