I thought I was going to die, says Nigerian footballer on Beirut explosion

Ifeanyi Vincent, a Nigerian footballer in Lebanon, says he thought he was going to die in the massive explosion which happened in Beirut, the country’s capital.

On Tuesday, a massive explosion occurred in Beirut, causing widespread damage to lives and properties.

Buildings were shattered, cars tumbled and at least 100 people were confirmed dead while more than 4,000 residents sustained various degree of injuries.

Officials linked the blast to about 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that were being stored in a warehouse at the port since they were confiscated six years ago.

According to The Punch, Vincent said he thought his life was going to end during the explosion.

The footballer arrived Beirut in January for trials but was yet to get a contract due to the coronavirus pandemic which halted sporting activities in some parts of the world.

He said he was in a hotel close to the explosion scene when it happened. He added that residents are still scared as they believe it might happen again.

“I can tell you that I’m really close to the spot of the blast. I’m in Dora in Beirut, where the blast happened. We were all confused, there were thick dark smokes everywhere, then the major blast happened and it was just like a smash on the face,” Vincent said.

“The first thing that came to my mind was that war had started. I was in a hotel and I was scared that the building was going to sink, and that I was going to die. Everywhere was shaking and the walls and roofs were trembling.

“Everything was scary and confusing. I don’t wish this for any country. It was a very terrible day. I ran out almost immediately because I thought staying inside was not going to help me. Everyone was outside trying to figure out what had happened.

“People were running, buildings were destroyed, it was really terrible. Everyone is scared because they don’t know if the explosion will happen again.”

Marwan Abboud, Beirut governor, said between 200,000 and 250,000 people had lost their homes during the explosion, while hospitals are currently overwhelmed.