At the Plumbing Market, located along Uga Street, close to Onitsha Bridge Head Market in Anambra State, a gas cylinder explosion has killed around two people and injured a number of others.
According to what our reporter learnt, the Friday event sent traders, bystanders, and customers scrambling to safety, causing panic in the market.
According to a witness close to the site, the explosion occurred when a welder was using carbide on metal.
Speaking to our correspondent on Saturday, Uzomah Eke, one of the market leaders, stated: “A cylinder explosion at our market yesterday (Friday) at the plumbing part of the Bridge Head Market, Onitsha, resulted in the deaths of two people.
“A welder was welding iron with carbide, and the gas cylinder suddenly exploded, killing two and injuring many others near the scene. It was a real tension because some body parts of the victims, which were shattered as a result of the explosion, littered the floor, and this caused everybody in the area to run for safety and abandon their wares; Some traders did not lock up their shops.
“The explosion damaged some goods and properties in the sections of the market. Interventions and rescue efforts were made by good-spirited individuals who took the injured victims to the hospital and also prevented further damage.”
When contacted, Chukwudi Chiketa, the fire chief for Anambra State, said he was unaware of the occurrence and was unable to corroborate it.
However, when reached on Saturday, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, verified the event.
Ikenga stated that police operatives have made precautions to safeguard the area and prevent criminal-minded people from taking advantage of the scenario to conduct crimes.
He said, “Police operatives attached to the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters on May 16, 2025, complemented the rescue efforts by good-spirited individuals on the six victims of a gas cylinder explosion at a plumbing market, along Uga Street, which regrettably recorded one death.
“Preliminary information revealed that the welding gas cylinder exploded as the welder was working on the metal due to exposure to excess heat.
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“Meanwhile, the six rescued victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while the deceased has been deposited in a morgue.
“To this end, the Police Operatives have taken steps to secure the area and prevent criminal-minded persons from taking advantage of the situation to commit crimes.”
According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, is concerned about the unfortunate incident and has provided some safety tips to prevent such from reoccurring.
“The tips include regular inspection and maintenance of the gas cylinder equipment, ensuring that the gas cylinders are stored securely and that the equipment is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines,” he added.
