Gas Explosion in Rivers State Injures 20, Including Pregnant Woman, Children

A gas explosion in the Orazi area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has left about 20 people critically injured, including a pregnant woman and four children. The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon near a densely populated area known as “Big Tree,” caused severe burns to many victims and triggered chaos in the neighborhood.

Witnesses reported that the explosion originated from a gas refilling shop where a technician was reportedly working on a faulty cylinder. The initial blast ignited a chain reaction, setting off other gas cylinders in the shop and leading to multiple explosions. The ensuing fire spread to nearby buildings, forcing occupants to flee for their lives.

Victims, comprising residents and passers-by, were rushed to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt for treatment. Among them were a couple and a pregnant woman, all reportedly suffering from severe burns.

A relative of one victim disclosed that the family had already spent over N500,000 on medical expenses. “The owner of the shop has been selling gas in the area for years. My sister-in-law and her husband were affected, and they are in critical condition,” he explained.

Another witness described the scene as devastating, adding that no lives were lost, but urgent government intervention is needed. “About 20 people were injured, and houses were burned. This is a tough way to start the year. The affected need help,” he pleaded.