A devastating explosion at a gas station in Calabar has left several people injured while destroying nearby shops and vehicles, triggering panic among residents and business owners in the area.
The incident, which occurred during a busy period of the day, reportedly began after a gas leak from a storage tank or dispensing unit.
According to preliminary findings, the leaked gas accumulated in the surrounding area and was ignited by a nearby spark, possibly from a running vehicle, generator, electrical fault, or even a lit cigarette, leading to a powerful blast that sent flames and thick smoke into the sky.
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Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as people scrambled for safety while others rushed to help victims caught in the aftermath.
Several individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries, with some suffering severe burns. Emergency responders and good Samaritans quickly moved victims to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment, though the exact number of casualties has yet to be officially confirmed.
The explosion also caused significant property damage, razing shops and leaving multiple vehicles completely burnt.
Business owners in the vicinity lamented heavy losses, as goods and livelihoods were destroyed within moments.
Fire service officials were deployed to the scene and worked to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading further.
Security agencies also cordoned off the area to ensure public safety and facilitate investigations.
Authorities are expected to launch a full inquiry into the incident, with early indications pointing to possible safety lapses such as poor maintenance of equipment, improper handling of gas, or failure to enforce standard safety precautions.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns about the safety standards of gas stations operating in densely populated areas, with residents calling for stricter regulation and enforcement to prevent future tragedies.
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