Gas Explosion Hits Inner Galaxy Company In Abia, Leaving 2 Dead, 10 Hospitalized (Photos)

A tragic gas explosion at Inner Galaxy Steel Company in Asa, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, has claimed the lives of two people and left ten others critically injured, ABN TV reports.

The explosion, which occurred on the morning of March 25, was reportedly triggered by a faulty gas valve, causing widespread damage within the facility.

During an exclusive interview with ABN TV, the Mayor of Ukwa West, Hon. Pastor Dike Briggs Nwankwo, recounted the immediate steps taken by his office upon receiving news of the incident.

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Hon. Nwankwo, who suspended all official engagements to visit the scene, described the devastation caused by the blast.

“The social media was flooded with various reports, some claiming that as many as 20 people had died. I immediately left my office and rushed to the factory. When I arrived, I was taken straight to the affected section, where I saw that the explosion had completely ripped apart the roof. Sadly, none of the victims were present, as they had already been taken to the hospital,” he said.

According to him, CCTV footage reviewed by the factory’s management and local authorities confirmed that the explosion occurred while a customer was handling a gas cylinder valve.

“My deputy, who has expertise in the gas business, helped analyze the footage. He confirmed that the incident was caused by a faulty valve, which led to the explosion,” the Mayor explained.

While confirming that two people had died, he debunked claims of a higher death toll.

“Twelve people were affected—two have died, and the remaining ten are receiving treatment at a hospital in Port Harcourt. As of this morning, I can confirm that they are responding well to treatment,” he added.

When ABN TV correspondent contacted the Abia State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Maureen Chinaka, she confirmed the explosion and stated that investigations were ongoing.

“We are aware of the incident at Inner Galaxy in Ukwa West. The explosion resulted in fatalities and injuries. Our officers are on the ground, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause and any possible lapses in safety protocols,” DSP Chinaka said.

She assured the public that the police would work closely with other relevant agencies to ensure that those responsible for any negligence are held accountable.

Meanwhile, the identities of the deceased victims have not yet been confirmed, as authorities are working to contact their families.

Expressing his condolences to the victims’ families, Hon. Nwankwo assured that the government would take firm steps to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

“We have made it clear to Inner Galaxy’s management that safety protocols must be taken seriously. While some accidents may be unavoidable, we cannot allow negligence to put lives at risk,” he stated.

He further revealed that his office had dispatched officials to the hospital to monitor the recovery of the injured victims.

The ABN TV interview also shed light on ongoing concerns about worker welfare at Inner Galaxy. Hon. Nwankwo acknowledged reports of poor working conditions and underpayment of employees, issues that had previously drawn government intervention.

“When a female worker died under questionable circumstances last year, Governor Alex Otti took a firm stance and ordered a review of labor and safety conditions at the factory. Since then, we have been monitoring their compliance,” he said.

Despite some improvements, Hon. Nwankwo admitted that many workers were still hesitant to speak up due to fear of losing their jobs.

“The high unemployment rate has forced many workers to endure poor conditions in silence. But we are working to gather concrete evidence so that the government can take decisive action,” he assured.

Meanwhile, emergency response teams and safety regulators have launched investigations to determine whether negligence played a role in the explosion.

Authorities have also reiterated the need for companies handling hazardous materials to prioritize safety and implement industry-standard precautions.

As investigations continue, Hon. Nwankwo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting workers and ensuring a safer working environment.