The death toll from last Tuesday’s gas explosion on Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has increased.
Akintayo Akinjoye, who operated an office near the explosion site, died at Gbagada General Hospital around 7:30 a.m. on Thursday.
Hospital sources, speaking anonymously due to job sensitivity, confirmed only two injured victims were admitted on Tuesday night for urgent treatment.
While Akinjoye has now passed away from his injuries, the second patient remains in critical condition but is responding positively.
Explosion Linked to 30-Tonne Gas Tanker
The explosion, which occurred at 8:08 p.m. on Tuesday, was reportedly caused by a 30-tonne gas tanker’s tragic fall.
Eyewitnesses stated four charred bodies were recovered from the explosion site, including auto mechanic Rotimi Adeleye, who attempted an escape.
Mechanic Caught in Explosion While Trying to Save Vehicle
Chairman of the mechanic workshop where Adeleye worked, Kolawole Ishola, confirmed he was moving a customer’s vehicle before dying.
“He had closed work already but attempted to move a 2016 Highlander when the tanker explosion happened unexpectedly,” Ishola said.
Adeleye’s remains were recovered by his mechanic colleagues from the burnt vehicle and buried early Wednesday morning in Lagos.
Company Offers Support to Victims
Representatives from Second Coming Nigeria, reportedly linked to the tanker, visited Gbagada General Hospital and promised support for survivors.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and will assist in every possible way to help the injured,” they stated.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is expected to release an updated report detailing the explosion’s full impact.
