An explosion caused by a gas leakage on Tuesday rocked the Ajegunle-Apapa area of Lagos State, damaging properties and leaving nine people injured.

In a press release, the director of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, said the inferno, which happened at about 12:39 p.m., was later controlled by emergency responders and prevented further destruction.

“Tragically, nine individuals, including a pregnant woman and several children and adults, suffered varying degrees of burn injuries,” said Ms Adeseye.

She stated that the rescued victims were currently undergoing treatment at the Ajeromi General Hospital and Gbagada Burnt and Trauma Centre.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that a suspected gas leakage triggered the explosion, subsequently igniting a high-tension cable, causing a fire outbreak. The incident occurred in an area known for its gas cylinder trading activities, amplifying the impact,” said Ms Adeseye.

Mr Adeseye said the coordinated efforts of the Ajegunle and Sari-Iganmu Fire Stations of the LSFRS and the Federal Fire Service prevented the inferno from further wreaking havoc.

She, however, stated, “Despite the prompt response, the incident inflicted damage on four commercial tricycles, six lock-up shops, and a section of a residential bungalow. However, firefighters managed to salvage nearby structures, including a critical fuel service station, mitigating potential additional losses.”

Ms Adeseye further reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property through proactive emergency response, public education, and community engagement initiatives.