Gas explosion on Otedola Bridge kills newlywed couple, others

A devastating gas explosion on the Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has left the city in mourning after claiming the lives of a newlywed couple, Dozie and Joan Okoye, and two others.

The tragic incident occurred at 8:08 pm on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, when a 30-tonne tanker carrying gas products exploded, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

Dozie and Joan Okoye, who had just celebrated their wedding on February 22, 2025, were on their way home when the explosion occurred.

Their sudden and untimely deaths have left family and friends in shock.

Reports indicate that their phone lines became unreachable shortly after the incident, prompting a frantic search by loved ones.

After checking the Burns Center in Gbagada and the Yaba Mortuary, their charred remains were finally identified on Wednesday evening.

The only clue to their identity was their car’s registration number, found among the burnt vehicles at the scene.

The explosion also claimed the lives of two other individuals, including Rotimi Adeleye, an auto mechanic.

Four charred bodies were recovered by responders, highlighting the severity of the blast.

The force of the explosion severely damaged a nearby Dental Clinic, while the generator house and security post of a church building in the vicinity also sustained significant damage.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the tanker involved in the explosion was owned by a nearby gas station.

Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the incident and whether safety protocols were followed.

The Lagos State Government has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to prevent such tragedies in the future.

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