The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, visited the surviving victims of the Oroazi gas explosion at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Old GRA, Port Harcourt.
CP Adepoju, who sympathized with the victims and advised residents of the state to be safety-conscious when using gas cylinders, urged residents to report to relevant authorities when persons in the business of refilling gas are engaged in unsafe acts that can cause accidents resulting in injuries and loss of lives.
The Rivers Police Chief described the condition of the patients as pathetic and worrisome, while praying for their quick recovery.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Professor Chizindu Alikor, received the Commissioner of Police and his team.
He said 16 persons were brought in on Saturday, January 4, 2025 – 12 adults and four children – and the hospital has been working tirelessly to ensure they are stable.
Professor Alikor disclosed that, with the full support of the Rivers State Government and the Commissioner for Health, the hospital is attending to the victims.
He also stated that other well-meaning Nigerians have been coming around to support.
Unfortunately, he added that two persons, an adult and a child, have died, but the hospital is doing its best to ensure the patients are stable and in good condition.
The Commissioner of Police was taken around the ward where the victims are admitted by the CMD.
At least 20 persons were injured when a gas exploded at the Oroazi axis of Mile 4, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday, January 4, 2025.