The explosion and subsequent firestorm was reportedly caused by people interfering with a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation pipeline that runs through the area.
The explosion and subsequent firestorm was reportedly caused by people interfering with a Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline that runs through the area, according to eyewitnesses. Two suspects have reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident.
The huge blast and subsequent fire began at roughly 7:45am local time, filling the sky with thick black clouds of smoke above the Diamond Estate along the Isheri/Lasu-Igando Road area of the city.
At least six people are feared dead, according to local reports, but there has been no official confirmation of casualties yet. The emergency response operation is still ongoing as the resulting fire spreads throughout the local community.
The area has reportedly suffered repeated pipeline explosions in recent years.
Comment: As noted, Nigeria's oil infrastructure has been a target of militants in past years: