A devastating gas explosion late Friday night has reportedly claimed several lives in the Bioku-Alaadun area of Ibadan, located in the Ona Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to information obtained by KoikiMedia, the incident occurred when a tanker was offloading gas at a retail outlet. Eyewitnesses said the discharge process suddenly went awry, triggering a powerful explosion that engulfed the area.

Among the victims were the gas shop owner and several residents and passers-by who were within the vicinity at the time of the blast. The exact number of casualties remains unclear as emergency responders continue rescue operations.

Confirming the incident in a telephone interview with The PUNCH, the General Manager of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Yemi Akinyinka, said firefighters had been deployed to the scene and were working to fully suppress the fire and secure the area.

“Our men are on the ground and still working,” Akinyinka stated. “Yes, the explosion occurred while gas was being discharged, and there are casualties. However, detailed reports are still being compiled.”

The incident has thrown the community into panic as residents await further updates from authorities and emergency teams continue their efforts.

Credit: PUNCH

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