Two injured, vehicles destroyed as explosion shakes Mobil filling station in Lagos
A gas explosion at the Mobil Filling Station across from Airport Hotel at Allen Junction in Lagos caused significant damage on Wednesday. The blast, involving a gas truck, led to two people sustaining burns and extensive property damage.
The explosion, which happened around 11 a.m., destroyed at least seven vehicles and damaged the second floor of a nearby two-story building. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.
Initial findings indicate that the explosion involved a 12-ton gas truck, though its registration number is unknown. The blast affected several cars and part of a nearby building. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), reported that while there were no deaths, two men suffered burns and several others had minor injuries. The injured were initially treated by LASEMA’s Pre-Hospital Care Team and LASAMBUS before being taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) for further care.
By 2 p.m., the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service had managed to control the fire and prevent further damage to nearby buildings. Rescue operations were ongoing, and the area experienced significant traffic disruptions. Emergency teams cordoned off the vicinity, including Obafemi Awolowo Road, redirecting motorists to alternative routes to ease congestion.
Margaret Adeseye, Director of Lagos Fire Service, explained that the explosion occurred as the gas truck was discharging its contents into a storage tank, which then ignited. The fire quickly spread, engulfing eight vehicles, including the tanker, and damaging parts of the top floor of a nearby building.
Several individuals were injured and taken to LASUTH. The exact number of injuries was still being confirmed at press time.
Adeseye noted, “Fire service teams from Alausa and Ikeja Fire Stations responded swiftly to control the blaze. Efforts to dampen the affected area are still ongoing.”
In addition to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, other agencies on-site included LASEMA, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC), the Mobil Fire Unit from Apapa, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABCA), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
