Tragedy struck on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, as a gas tanker explosion on the Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway claimed multiple lives, including that of a newlywed couple, Dozie and Joan Okoye. The couple, who had just tied the knot on February 22, 2025, lost their lives in the devastating blast.
According to reports, Dozie and Joan were on their way home when their phone lines suddenly became unreachable. Their worried loved ones launched a desperate search, checking the Burns Center in Gbagada and the Yaba Mortuary. On Wednesday evening, their worst fears were confirmed when the couple’s charred remains were identified, with their car’s registration number being the only means of recognition among the burnt vehicles.
The explosion, which occurred at approximately 8:08 p.m., was caused by a 30-tonne tanker carrying gas products, reportedly owned by a nearby gas station. The impact of the blast was devastating, severely damaging a Dental Clinic and causing significant destruction to the generator house and security post of a nearby church.
Responders recovered four charred bodies from the scene, including that of an auto mechanic identified as Rotimi Adeleye. Emergency services and authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, as calls grow for stricter regulations on the transportation of hazardous materials to prevent further tragedies.
