Calabar Gas Explosion Death Toll Climbs to 60 as Cross River Government Intensifies Emergency Response!

Reported by Marian opeyemi fasesan, Editor-in-chief | Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

The casualty toll from the devastating gas explosion in Calabar has risen to 60, marking one of the most severe urban industrial accidents in southern Nigeria in recent months. Authorities in Cross River State have confirmed that dozens of victims are currently receiving treatment for varying degrees of burn injuries, while the state government ramps up emergency response efforts and medical support.

The explosion, which occurred in a densely populated area of Calabar, triggered widespread panic, destruction of property, and mass casualties. Eyewitness accounts describe a sudden, thunderous blast followed by an intense fire that rapidly engulfed nearby structures, trapping residents and passersby. Emergency responders, including fire services and medical personnel, were quickly deployed to the scene to contain the inferno and evacuate victims.

The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, speaking during an on-site assessment, confirmed that the number of injured persons has now reached 60, many of whom are suffering from critical burns and respiratory complications caused by smoke inhalation. According to officials, victims have been distributed across multiple healthcare facilities within and around Calabar to ensure timely medical intervention.

In a swift policy response, the state government announced that it would fully cover the medical expenses of all victims. This move, authorities say, is aimed at reducing the financial burden on affected families and ensuring that no victim is denied urgent care due to cost constraints. The government has also pledged to provide psychosocial support and rehabilitation services for survivors dealing with trauma.

Governor Bassey Otu has expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as “a tragic and avoidable disaster.” He has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the root cause of the explosion, with early indications pointing to possible gas leakage from improperly handled or illegally stored petroleum products. Regulatory agencies have been directed to intensify inspections and enforce safety compliance across gas distribution and storage facilities statewide.

Safety experts warn that incidents like the Calabar explosion highlight systemic gaps in Nigeria’s urban safety enforcement, particularly in the handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Rapid urbanization, combined with weak regulatory oversight, has increased the risk of such disasters in residential and commercial zones.

Local residents have called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and better urban planning to prevent a recurrence. Community leaders emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns on the safe handling and storage of gas products, especially in densely populated areas.

The incident has also drawn national attention, with emergency management agencies coordinating with state authorities to provide additional support. The National Emergency Management Agency has indicated readiness to assist with relief materials and technical expertise as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, humanitarian groups and civil society organizations are mobilizing aid for affected families, many of whom have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones. Calls for accountability and transparency in the investigation process are growing louder, as stakeholders demand clear answers and preventive measures.

This latest tragedy adds to a series of gas-related explosions reported across Nigeria in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for a nationwide review of safety protocols in the petroleum and gas sector. Analysts argue that without decisive reforms, similar incidents could continue to threaten lives and economic stability.

Sources: Punch Newspapers, Vanguard Newspaper, Channels Television, BBC News

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

www.selemedia.org