Gas Pipeline Explosion in Rivers State Leaves Casualties

Explosions in Edo and Rivers states have left five people feared dead and injured at least 31 others, including a pregnant woman. In Rivers State, a gas pipeline explosion occurred in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area, injuring at least 20 people and destroying about 50 houses.

In Edo State, a tanker explosion in Oluku, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, resulted in 11 people suffering burns, with five feared dead. The injured were taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for treatment.

The explosions caused extensive damage to businesses and property. A resident named Stanley reported that the pipeline had been leaking for three weeks prior to the explosion, and community leaders, including Daniel Chuma, had notified the Nigeria Gas Company and relevant authorities without receiving adequate responses.

Chuma stated that despite petitions for urgent intervention, no representative from the company visited the scene after the explosion, which led to significant casualties and property destruction.