The Lagos State government has described the loss of innocent lives in Abule Ado, which brought grief to numerous families on Sunday, as sad.

The government assured Lagosians that efforts are on to determine the cause of the explosion that has left many homeless.

Giving an update about the incident, the Director-General, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, commiserated with the affected families, saying that efforts are on to evacuate the casualties.

Oke-Osanyintolu expressed concern that the fire has displaced several residents who fled their homes for fear of being caught in the inferno.

While noting that the primary cause of the explosion remains unknown, the Director-General confirmed that secondary explosions occurred at the location of the fire and caused significant damage to multiple buildings, including a Church that was razed. St. Margaret’s Girls Hostel close to the site was also affected.

Oke-Osanyintolu said all rescue and recovery Agencies including the Lagos State and Federal Fire Services personnel, Lagos State Safety Commission, Lagos State Building Control Agency, as well as the Ministry of Special Duties, are still clearing the debris of the incident.

He said that 17 bodies have so far been recovered from the rubble while 25 injured people are being treated for injuries at the site.

“We sympathise with the families of the dead, wish the injured quick recovery and appeal for calm. Residents are urged to shun fake news. Our operations are still in progress and we will provide updates throughout this process while investigations continue”, Oke-Osanyintolu said.