The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to unauthorised gas operators across Nigeria following a deadly explosion in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed three lives.
The warning was delivered by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, who condemned the reckless operations of illegal gas retailers and emphasized that the government would take swift action against offenders.
The incident occurred on Friday night, 21 November 2025, in the Biodun Alaadun area of Ona Ara Local Government Area, when a gas tanker was reportedly discharging LPG into an illegal retail outlet. The blast caused extensive damage to nearby homes, shops, and a church.
“I am deeply saddened by this tragic explosion and extend my heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, especially the families who lost loved ones and those injured,” Ekpo said.
He stressed that the explosion was entirely preventable and blamed factors such as negligence, substandard equipment, and illegal operations for such disasters. “Gas is safe when handled responsibly. It is negligence, the use of substandard equipment, and unlawful operations that lead to tragedies like this,” he added.
Ekpo noted that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has launched a full investigation into the incident and urged residents and eyewitnesses to cooperate fully to help determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
“Let me be clear: illegal operators must immediately vacate the sector. The Federal Government will not hesitate to shut down unsafe sites, prosecute offenders, and enforce all safety regulations to protect lives, property, and public confidence in Nigeria’s gas industry,” he warned.
The Minister also highlighted that while cooking with gas is safe, tragedies occur when operators ignore safety standards or operate without the necessary licenses.
