Gas Explosion Sparks Panic, Shakes Buildings In Kubwa

Panic gripped residents of Kubwa, Abuja, on Sunday morning following an explosion at a gas refilling outlet along the newly inaugurated Arab Road, near Liberty Junction.

The explosion reportedly occurred after a vehicle travelling against traffic rammed into the shop where gas cylinders were stored, according to eyewitnesses at the scene.

The impact triggered a heavy blast and fire, with the force of the explosion uprooting nearby installations, including signposts, and affecting surrounding buildings.

Residents several metres away were also reportedly shaken by the explosion, while thick smoke and flames from the fire caused further panic in the area.

Fire Service personnel arrived at the scene and began efforts to contain the inferno. Additional water tankers were deployed to reinforce the firefighting operation.

Operatives of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, also arrived at the scene to support the emergency response.

The extent of casualties or damage was not immediately known as of the time of filing this report.