Gas explosion rocks Lagos market

Gas Explosion Contained at Orisunmibare Market, Lagos

On Sunday, October 26, 2025, a gas explosion disrupted the calm of Orisunmibare Market in the Orile-Iganmu area of Lagos State, Nigeria.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:13 p.m. and was traced to a gas retail outlet within the market premises. The outlet reportedly housed multiple gas cylinders of varying sizes, one of which triggered the explosion.

Swift intervention by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service was pivotal in containing the situation. Firefighters from the Sari-Iganmu and Ilupeju stations responded promptly, preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent shops and averting a potentially catastrophic escalation.

According to Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the coordinated efforts of the emergency teams ensured that the blaze was brought under control in a timely manner.

Fortunately, no fatalities were recorded. However, one individual sustained a minor hand injury at the site of the explosion. The affected shops suffered damage, but the overall impact was mitigated by the rapid response of the fire crews. Operations at the market were concluded later that day, and the area was declared safe.

In a related incident earlier that same day, a 33,000-litre Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker with registration number AAB-942YC spilled its contents along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway near the Berger Car Depot.

The tanker, en route from the Apapa Terminal, collided with a Mercedes-Benz Jeep and seven other stationary vehicles displayed for sale. Fire crews from Ajegunle and Ijegun-Egba stations were deployed to manage the spill and prevent a secondary disaster.

The remaining fuel was successfully transferred to another tanker, and recovery operations continued into the evening.

Director Adeseye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to maintaining vigilance and ensuring public safety across Lagos State. She emphasized that the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service remains proactive in managing emergencies and preventing fire outbreaks, underscoring the importance of preparedness and swift action in urban disaster response.

This report highlights the resilience and efficiency of Lagos State’s emergency services in the face of potentially devastating incidents, and serves as a reminder of the critical role they play in safeguarding lives and property.