The Federal Government has commiserated with families affected by the late-night gas explosion that rocked the Biodun Alaadun area of Ona Ara Local Government in Ibadan, claiming three lives on Friday, November 21, 2025.

The incident occurred when a tanker discharging Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) into a retail outlet suddenly ignited. Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosion happened while the tanker was offloading gas into an illegal 2.5MT skid located in a densely populated neighbourhood, leading to widespread destruction of homes, shops, and a nearby church.

Reacting to the tragedy, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State, especially the families who lost loved ones or sustained injuries.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic gas explosion that occurred on Friday, 21 November 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State. My heartfelt condolences go to the Government and people of Oyo State, especially the families who lost loved ones and those who sustained injuries,” Ekpo said.

Describing the incident as needless and entirely preventable, the minister warned that the Federal Government would no longer condone illegal gas operations.

 “It is unacceptable for anyone to endanger lives by operating illegal gas facilities or engaging in unsafe practices.”

Ekpo noted that while cooking gas is generally safe, explosions are often triggered by negligence, poor handling, substandard equipment, and failure to obtain operational licences.

He confirmed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has commenced a full investigation into the blast and urged residents and eyewitnesses to support the process to ensure the root cause is uncovered.

“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 sector,” he warned.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening enforcement across the downstream gas value chain to prevent further loss of lives.