Dozens of residents in Calabar South, Cross River State, are battling severe burn injuries after a gas explosion tore through a densely populated neighbourhood, destroying more than twenty homes and leaving families stranded.
The explosion, triggered during a routine gas transfer along Edibe Edibe Road, has not only exposed safety lapses in residential areas, but also sparked outrage over delayed emergency response, as the state government steps in with urgent relief measures.
What began as a routine gas transfer quickly spiralled into disaster in Calabar South, after a hose reportedly detached, releasing highly flammable fumes into the surrounding area.
Moments later, the fumes ignited, unleashing a raging fire that tore through homes and shops, leaving residents scrambling for safety.
Eyewitnesses say the speed and intensity of the fire left little room for escape, as entire buildings were consumed within minutes.
Amid the chaos, some survivors allege that efforts to reach emergency responders were unsuccessful, as calls to the fire service did not yield immediate action.
At the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH, the Chief Medical Director, Ikpeme Ikpeme, confirmed that at least fifty-one victims are receiving treatment for varying degrees of burns, with several in critical condition.
Governor Bassey Otu, during a visit to the scene, condemned the siting of gas facilities within residential communities, warning that such practices endanger lives.
He also announced immediate government intervention, directing free medical treatment for all injured victims and compensation for affected property owners.
As investigations get underway, authorities say attention is now focused on accountability and stricter enforcement of safety regulations, measures many residents believe are long overdue.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
