A gas explosion has been reported to have occurred at Inner Galaxy Steel Company located in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, killing two persons.
According to a publication made by Rev. Ihunanya Johnson Nwosu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Ukwa West Mayor, Pastor Dike Nwankwo, the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was reportedly triggered by a suspected faulty valve leading to a devastating blast.
The publication by Nwosu says:
“Upon receiving the distressing report, Hon. Pst. Dike Nwankwo immediately visited the scene to assess the situation firsthand. He engaged with emergency responders, facility management, and available staff to ensure that the injured received prompt medical attention.
“According to preliminary reports, the explosion resulted in twelve (12) casualties, with two (2) confirmed fatalities. However, the Chairman clarified that contrary to unverified reports circulating in some quarters, claims of twenty (20) deaths are inaccurate. All affected individuals were customers present at the facility at the time of the explosion.
“Emergency response teams swiftly evacuated the injured victims to a medical facility in Port Harcourt, where they are currently receiving urgent treatment.
“Addressing the situation, Hon. Pst. Dike Nwankwo expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families yet to be identified, and assured that the Council remains committed to monitoring developments and enforcing necessary safety reviews at the facility. He further emphasized the need for stricter adherence to safety protocols by the management of Inner Galaxy to prevent future occurrences.
The publication adds that the the Mayor said that as a government, it would ensure a thorough review of the circumstances that led to this unfortunate incident, as Llves must be protected, and safety measures strictly enforced.
