The gas explosion at the Inner Galaxy Steel Company in ASA’s UKWA Western Government Area of Abia State claimed the lives of two people and caused serious harm to ten other people.
The explosion was reportedly triggered by a gas valve failure on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, causing widespread damage within the facility.
Maureen Chinaka, a spokesman for the Abia State Police Department, confirmed the incident in a statement Thursday.
She said the chief safety officer of the Chinese company informed the order that the explosion was reportedly triggered by a faulty gas valve, causing widespread damage within the facility.
In response to inquiries Thursday, Mayor UKWA WEST LGA, Dike Briggs Nwankwo, spoke about the direct steps his office took after receiving news of the incident.
Nwankwo suspended all official activities that were involved in the scene, describing the damage caused by the explosion.
“Social media is full of reports, with some claiming up to 20 people dead. I immediately left the office and rushed to the factory. When I arrived, I was taken directly to the affected part where I saw the explosion had completely ripped the roof.”
He revealed that CCTV footage reviewed by factory management and local authorities confirmed that the explosion occurred when the customer handled the cylinder valve.
He added: “Twelve people were affected, two died, and the remaining 10 were being treated at a hospital in Port Harcourt. As of this morning, I can confirm that they responded well to the treatment.”
