An explosion has rocked a private petrol and gas filling station on Edibe Edibe Street in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, leaving several residents injured and causing significant property damage.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, completely destroyed the facility identified as Fonex Gas Station.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the blast ignited a large fire that spread rapidly, engulfing critical parts of the station, including fuel and gas storage tanks, as well as vehicles on the premises.
Located in a densely populated area, the impact extended beyond the station, affecting nearby shops and buildings and forcing residents and business owners to flee for safety.
Several individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries. While some received treatment at nearby patent medicine stores, others were taken to hospitals for further medical care.
As of the time of reporting, emergency responders, including the fire service, had yet to arrive at the scene, raising concerns among residents.
The situation also reportedly created an opening for hoodlums to loot goods from affected shops and the damaged facility.
Crowds gathered at the scene, with some residents attempting to control the fire using sand, water, and other improvised means.
There were differing accounts regarding the cause of the explosion, with some attributing it to a phone call made near the gas dispensing area, while others pointed to possible electrical faults or faulty equipment.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, confirmed that officers had been deployed and noted that efforts were underway to mobilise fire service personnel, including support from FAAN.
More details are expected as authorities continue to respond to the situation.
