A gas tanker that exploded at OPIC Plaza/Sheraton Hotel area of Maryland, Ikeja in Lagos State on Thursday night has left several persons injured.

Director-General of the Lagos State Emergency Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu said the agency responded to a distress call shortly before midnight on Thursday concerning a gas tanker that exploded inward Ikeja.

The explosion affected the OPIC Plaza leading to a fire outbreak that damaged 22 parked vehicles within the premises, the agency noted.

The LASEMA DG stated, “First responders worked to control the spread to the adjacent properties as well as the nearby petrol station until 0400hrs Friday.

“Thirteen people were rescued, nine males, four females they sustained various degree of burns and were provided with pre-hospital care before being taken to Lagos State health facilities for further treatment.

“A combined team of agency firefighters, Lagos Fire Service, and the Federal fire Service were coordinated by the agency while the Director of Lagos Fire Services, the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Special Duties, the Commissioner of Police were also at the scene.

“The affected truck has been moved, the entire affected area cordoned off and post-disaster assessment ongoing.”