A gas explosion on Sunday afternoon caused panic at the Orisunmibare Market, Oja Bus Stop, Baale Road, Orile-Iganmu, leaving traders and residents scampering for safety as thick smoke billowed into the sky.
The incident, which occurred around 2:13 p.m., was traced to a gas retail outlet within the busy market, where several cylinders of varying sizes reportedly exploded in quick succession.
According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the fire started in one of the shops selling cooking gas before spreading rapidly to nearby stores.
“On arrival at the scene, it was observed that a block of shops in the market was engulfed in flames,” LASEMA said. “Further information revealed that the fire started from an explosion in one of the shops selling cooking gas.”
Although no lives were lost, one young man sustained minor injuries and was treated by LASEMA paramedics.
The Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, confirmed that firefighters from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju stations were deployed immediately, preventing the fire from spreading to adjoining shops and buildings.
“Swift responses from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju Fire Stations brought the situation under control, preventing further escalation after several shops were affected,” Adeseye said.
She added that operations were concluded with no fatalities recorded, except for one minor hand injury sustained at the gas retail shop.
Responders at the scene included LASEMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), the Federal Fire Service, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
Officials say investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion and assess the extent of property damage.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service assured residents that it remains on high alert to prevent similar incidents and ensure public safety across the state.
