The number of people injured in the recent gas explosion in Calabar, Cross River State, has risen to 60, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The explosion, which occurred on Saturday in the area of Calabar South, has left the community in shock and prompted swift action by state officials.
Dr. Henry Ayuk, the state Commissioner for Health, disclosed the updated figure during a visit to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where the victims are receiving medical attention. His visit aimed to assess the condition of the injured and coordinate ongoing efforts to provide care.
Initially, the number of victims was reported as 30 by the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, who visited the site of the incident on Saturday. The governor assured that the state government would cover hospital bills for the injured, stressing that no family should bear the financial burden arising from the accident.
Dr. Ayuk explained that the victims at UCTH are being treated according to the severity of their injuries. He noted that those with minor burn injuries would be transferred to the General Hospital in Calabar to reduce pressure on the teaching hospital and ensure that all patients receive adequate care.
“We arrived at the Accident and Emergency Department of UCTH, where about 60 victims of the gas explosion that occurred along Edibe Edibe, Calabar South, are receiving treatment,” he said. “The patients are being attended to promptly, and those with minor injuries will be moved to the General Hospital to ensure proper management and efficiency of care.”
The Health Commissioner was accompanied by Mr. Ekpeyong Akiba, the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties. They were received at the hospital by the Chief Medical Director of UCTH, Prof. Ikpeme Ikpeme, who provided updates on the condition of the patients and the measures being taken to manage the incident.
The explosion reportedly occurred following a gas leak at a local gas plant in Edibe Edibe. The blast affected several nearby homes, causing injuries to residents and damage to property. Eyewitnesses said the explosion created panic, with residents rushing to evacuate their homes and assist the injured.
Emergency services responded quickly, transporting the most severely injured victims to UCTH, while local volunteers and community members helped others reach medical care. The response from both the state government and local authorities has been widely praised for its speed and coordination.
Governor Otu, speaking after his initial visit to the site, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that all victims receive full medical support. He assured the public that the state would spare no effort in facilitating treatment, including covering hospital bills and providing necessary medical interventions.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety standards at industrial facilities in the state. Gas plants are particularly sensitive areas, and experts note that strict adherence to safety protocols is essential to prevent accidents that can affect both workers and nearby residents.
Health officials at UCTH have set up a dedicated emergency team to manage the influx of victims. Medical personnel are treating burn injuries, trauma, and other complications arising from the blast. Hospital management has also arranged additional beds and resources to ensure that patients receive timely and effective care.
Dr. Ayuk highlighted that proper triage and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, particularly for victims with severe burns. He also reassured families that all patients are under constant monitoring and that the state government is providing support for medical logistics and supplies.
In addition to immediate medical attention, authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the explosion. Safety inspectors from the state and federal agencies may conduct a thorough assessment of the gas plant to determine what led to the leak and how future incidents can be prevented.
The Edibe Edibe gas explosion comes at a time when residents of Cross River State have been calling for improved safety measures in industrial areas. Community leaders and advocacy groups have urged stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent such disasters, emphasizing that industrial accidents often have long-lasting social and economic consequences.
While the injured are receiving treatment, efforts are also being made to assess and repair damage to nearby homes and properties. Local authorities, in collaboration with community leaders, are coordinating relief measures to support affected families.
The response to the Edibe Edibe gas explosion underscores the importance of collaboration between government agencies, health authorities, and community members. Officials say that ongoing coordination will ensure that the needs of the victims are fully addressed and that preventive measures are strengthened to avoid future tragedies.
Residents of Calabar South continue to express concern about the safety of gas facilities in the area. Many are calling for stricter monitoring and regulation of industrial operations to safeguard lives and property.
As the state continues to provide treatment and support, authorities have reiterated the importance of following safety regulations at all industrial plants. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with gas handling and the need for vigilance by both operators and regulatory bodies.
Cross River State officials have pledged to keep the public updated on the condition of the victims and the outcome of investigations into the explosion. The government has also promised to review safety procedures and strengthen emergency response measures to protect residents in the future.
The gas explosion in Edibe Edibe has shaken the community, leaving families and friends concerned for the wellbeing of victims. With 60 people now confirmed injured, the state government’s swift intervention and commitment to covering medical expenses has provided some relief to affected families, while highlighting the importance of safety and preparedness in industrial operations.