Explosion Rocks Abuja Fuel Station As Petrol Tanker Goes Up In Flames

According to Ireporter Online, the explosion triggered a major fire outbreak that spread rapidly to nearby structures, including a building belonging to the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS).

Eyewitnesses revealed that the incident occurred at about 10 p.m. while the tanker was reportedly discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, into the station’s underground storage facility.

The sudden explosion sent huge flames into the sky, causing fear across the area as residents, workers and motorists rushed away from the scene to avoid danger.

An eyewitness who spoke about the incident said the tanker caught fire during the fuel discharge process, adding that the flames quickly extended to surrounding buildings.

“The tanker exploded while discharging petrol into the filling station. The fire spread very fast and affected nearby buildings,” the witness said.

Confirming the incident, the Chief Superintendent of Fire with the FCT Fire Service, Ibrahim Muhammad Tauhid, said firefighters were immediately deployed to contain the situation and prevent further damage.

“Our men are currently on the ground battling the fire. It is a serious incident, and some surrounding buildings have been affected,” Tauhid stated.

The fire official disclosed that some people were affected during the incident, although the exact number of casualties and the level of injuries were yet to be confirmed.

He added that emergency agencies were working to bring the situation under control while assessments continued at the scene.

Emergency teams from the FCT Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service reportedly battled the inferno for several hours, working to stop the flames from spreading further within the busy commercial area.

Authorities advised residents, motorists and bystanders to avoid the location to allow emergency responders unhindered access and ensure the safe containment of the fire.

Officials also stated that a detailed investigation would be launched after the area is secured to determine the cause of the tanker explosion and identify possible safety lapses.