By Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

A gas explosion on Tuesday ruptured the calm at the Conference Hotel on Presidential Boulevard, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, killing a technician and another yet-to-be identified person.

The explosion, which occurred around noon time, left three others with varying degrees of injuries.

The hotel sited opposite the sprawling Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), is owned by former Governor Gbenga Daniel.

The injured are receiving treatment in a hospital.

Reacting, the hotel facility manager, Engr. Tunde Osinubi, confirmed the incident, saying it was greatly regretted.

Osinubu, in a statement, attributed the cause of the explosion at the Conference Hotel to “fake gas cylinder.”

He said: “A routine maintenance of the automatic revolving door at the entrance of hotel reception, which involved the use of oxyacetylene gas to weld the door hinges, was being carried out.

“The Oxyacetylene gas cylinder suddenly exploded, killing the technician and one other person yet to be identified.

“Three other people were injured and were immediately taken to the hospital. They are responding to treatment.

“So far no sabotage is suspected. It is however suspected that the gas cylinder purchased at the open market may be fake and unable to withstand gas pressure.

“The incidence of Gas explosions as a result of fake cylinders being sold has become worrisome and of great concern as similar incidents have been reported in several locations in Abeokuta recently with casualties.

“The management of the hotel sympathizes with the families and friends of the deceased and wishes to warn the general public of the presence of fake gas cylinders in the market.

“This incidence is however greatly regretted.”