- Explosion Rocks Calabar Gas Station, Several Injured
- Residents Flee as Explosion Destroys Property
- Emergency Response Underway
An explosion at Fonex Gas Station on Edibe Edibe Street in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State on Saturday left several residents injured and caused significant property damage.
Eko Hot Blog reports that eyewitnesses reported that the blast sparked a massive fire, engulfing fuel and gas storage tanks, vehicles on the premises, and nearby shops.
EDITOR’S PICK
- NYSC LGI Arrested Over Death of Female Corps Member in Ogun
- Tinubu Promotes Nigeria’s Economy, Culture at London Event
- Teenager Shot Dead by Suspected Cultists in Lagos
The densely populated neighbourhood was thrown into panic, with residents and business owners fleeing to safety.
Several victims sustained varying degrees of injuries. Some were treated at nearby patent medicine stores, while others were rushed to hospitals for medical attention. Residents also attempted to contain the fire using sand, water, and other improvised methods before emergency responders arrived.
As of reporting, firefighters had yet to reach the scene, raising concerns about the potential spread of the fire. The chaos reportedly created opportunities for hoodlums to loot goods from affected shops and the damaged facility.
There were conflicting reports on the cause of the explosion. Some witnesses suggested it was triggered by a phone call near the gas dispensing point, while others attributed it to possible electrical faults or faulty equipment.
The Cross River State Police confirmed deployment of officers to the scene. Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, stated that efforts were ongoing to mobilise fire service personnel, with additional support expected from FAAN.
Authorities continue to assess the situation, and further details are expected as emergency services take control of the incident.
