A vehicle crashed into a gas store on Arab Road in Kubwa, Abuja, early on Sunday morning, triggering a powerful explosion that shook buildings up to two kilometres away. The incident occurred at approximately 6:15am, sending shockwaves through surrounding neighbourhoods and prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
Blast Felt Across Wide Area
Residents of Dantata Estate, located roughly two kilometres from the explosion site, reported that the walls and floors of their homes vibrated from the force of the blast. The explosion was loud enough to wake people from their sleep, according to eyewitness accounts.
“The explosion was loud enough to wake people from their sleep, and we could feel the buildings shaking. Everyone was wondering what had happened,” one resident told Legit.ng.
Damage and Casualties at the Scene
The blast caused significant destruction in the vicinity of Arab Road. A shelter stand and signposts at the nearby Liberty Junction were damaged, while shops close to the gas store were caught up in the resulting fire. The car involved in the crash was completely burned out.
The driver of the vehicle and a child were both rescued from the scene and taken to hospital for treatment. Their conditions were not immediately confirmed at the time of reporting.
Emergency Response Underway
When journalists visited the scene, fire fighters and security operatives were on the ground working to bring the situation under control. A large crowd had gathered around the area, blocking the movement of vehicles along the road.
The incident highlights the risks associated with gas storage in residential areas, as emergency teams worked to secure the site and prevent further damage. The full extent of the damage and the condition of the injured individuals remain unclear as the response continues.
