The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed a fatal gas explosion at the Onitsha Head Bridge market that claimed one life and left six others injured on Friday, May 16, 2025.
According to a statement released on Saturday by Police Spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the incident occurred at a plumbing market along Uga Street when a welding gas cylinder exploded due to exposure to excessive heat.
"Preliminary information revealed that the welding gas cylinder exploded as the welder was working on a metal due to exposure to excess heat," Ikenga explained in the statement.
The police spokesman further detailed that officers attached to the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters joined rescue efforts by good-spirited individuals to assist the victims. The six survivors are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital, while the deceased has been deposited in a morgue.
In response to the incident, police operatives have taken measures to secure the area and prevent criminal elements from exploiting the situation.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikioye Orutugu, expressed concern over the unfortunate incident and emphasized the need for regular inspection and proper maintenance of gas cylinder equipment.
The Commissioner stressed that gas cylinders should be stored securely and used according to manufacturers' instructions and safety guidelines to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This explosion adds to a series of safety incidents that have occurred in Onitsha markets in recent years, highlighting ongoing concerns about adherence to safety protocols in commercial areas.
