A Popular Nigerian singer Patrick Okorie, widely known as Patoranking, is grieving the loss of his younger sister, Chioma, and her husband, George Onuabuchi, following a tragic gas explosion. The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed the incident, which took place on August 25, leading to their deaths.
DSP Joshua Ukandu, spokesperson for the state police, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the fatal explosion occurred in the Waterworks area of Abakaliki. Despite residents’ quick response, alerting local authorities, both victims succumbed to their injuries. Chioma passed away shortly after the explosion in August, while her husband, George, fought for his life until September.
“It’s very unfortunate that both finally died,” Ukandu stated. He added that preliminary investigations pointed to a gas explosion as the cause, quashing earlier rumors that an inverter may have been involved. “What killed them was gas and not an inverter explosion,” he clarified.
The couple, who leave behind a three-year-old son, have been described as a vibrant young family. A relative, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed the deep sorrow felt by the family, calling it a “bad event” and remarking on the family’s grief: “They have gone.”
Patoranking, known for his Afrobeat hits and activism, has not yet publicly commented on the tragedy, but the news has sent waves of sadness through his fan base and the Nigerian music community.
The loss highlights the dangers of gas-related accidents in Nigeria, where safety standards are often under scrutiny. As authorities continue to investigate, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family during this tragic time.
