A devastating explosion in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, has resulted in the deaths of George and Chioma Buchi. Chioma, the younger sister of renowned Afrobeats artist Patoranking, was among the victims. The explosion occurred at their newly constructed residence on Water Works Road.
Reports about the cause of the explosion vary. Some sources suggest a malfunctioning solar light battery inverter may be responsible, while others point to a gas cylinder. There are also allegations that an object may have been deliberately planted at the scene.
Neighbor Nwokporo Victor Uchechukwu recounted: “We heard a loud explosion in the afternoon. When we arrived, smoke was billowing from the building, with extensive damage to electronics, ceiling, doors, and windows. Initially, we thought it was due to a gas cylinder, but it sounded more like a bomb.”
DSP Joshua Ukandu, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the explosion and the severe injuries sustained by the couple. He stated that Chioma passed away first, followed by George on September 11, 2024. The cause of the explosion remains unconfirmed, and an investigation is underway.
The couple leaves behind a 3-year-old son, who was with his grandmother at the time of the explosion.
