Over 20 people, including children, sustained severe burns following a gas explosion at Big Tree, Orazi, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Sunday.
The explosion reportedly occurred at a gas retailing shop while welding activities were being carried out at the site. Eyewitnesses revealed that many of the victims were passers-by who happened to be near the shop when the explosion happened.
The victims were immediately rushed to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, where they are receiving urgent medical attention.
In a trending video from the scene, some victims appeared to have been burnt beyond recognition. However, no fatalities have been reported as of the time of filing this report.
An anonymous source from the area expressed shock at the incident and highlighted the dangers of welding near gas refilling stations.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement, but the incident underscores the need for strict safety measures at gas retailing points to prevent similar tragedies.
Investigation into the exact cause of the explosion is ongoing.