A massive fire, sparked by a gas leakage, engulfed a two-storey building on Oduntan Street, Mushin, Lagos, on Saturday afternoon, reducing property worth millions of naira to ashes.
The blaze, which erupted in the second-floor flat of the residential building, quickly spread across the premises, destroying the roof, ceilings, and the personal belongings of residents. The fire reportedly originated from a faulty gas cylinder in one of the apartments, according to officials from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).
Despite the devastating loss of property, there were no casualties or injuries. Firefighters and emergency responders acted swiftly to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings, ensuring the safety of residents and onlookers.
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, praised the swift intervention of the agency’s Eagle Response Team, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and other emergency units.
“The quick response of LASEMA’s Eagle Response Team, alongside the LRU Fire Unit, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and the Nigeria Police Force, prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent structures,” Oke-Osanyintolu stated.
According to him, valuables and money discovered during the rescue operations were promptly returned to their rightful owners. However, the extent of the damage was significant, leaving the residents displaced and mourning the loss of their belongings.
In the aftermath of the incident, officials emphasized the need for residents to handle gas cylinders and electrical appliances with care. LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire Service used the opportunity to educate the affected residents on the dangers of gas leaks and faulty appliances.
“Occupants of the affected building were sensitized on the safe use of gas cylinders, electrical appliances, and the need for proper maintenance to prevent future incidents,” Oke-Osanyintolu added.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service echoed similar sentiments, urging residents across the state to conduct regular checks on their household appliances and gas cylinders to avoid similar tragedies.
Saturday’s tragedy is the latest in a string of fire incidents linked to gas leaks in Lagos. Authorities have repeatedly warned of the dangers posed by improperly maintained gas cylinders and substandard appliances.
Last year, a similar fire razed an entire block of apartments in the Surulere area, leaving dozens homeless. In response, the Lagos State Government launched a public safety campaign to educate residents on fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
Despite these efforts, incidents persist, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and increased public awareness.
