A gas cylinder explosion at the Plumbing Market on Uga Street near Onitsha Bridge Head Market in Anambra State on Friday has tragically claimed two lives and left six others injured, okay.ng reports.
The blast caused widespread panic as traders and customers scrambled for safety.
An eyewitness reported that the explosion occurred while a welder was using carbide to work on metal. Uzomah Eke, a market leader, told reporters, “Two persons died yesterday in our market at the plumbing section of the Bridge Head Market, Onitsha, due to a cylinder explosion. The welder was welding iron with carbide when the gas cylinder exploded suddenly.”
He described the chaotic scene: “Some body parts of the victims were shattered and scattered on the floor, causing everyone to run for safety and abandon their wares. Some traders did not even lock their shops. The explosion also damaged goods and properties in the market.”
Good-spirited individuals quickly responded, rescuing the injured and taking them to hospital, while efforts were made to prevent further damage. The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident, with spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stating that police officers from the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters supported the rescue.
Ikenga said, “Preliminary information showed the welding gas cylinder exploded due to exposure to excess heat as the welder worked on metal. One person died, and six victims are receiving hospital treatment.”
Police have secured the site to prevent criminal exploitation. Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu expressed concern and advised regular inspection, proper storage, and adherence to safety protocols for gas cylinders to prevent future incidents.
