Gas station explodes in Calabar, residents injured

Several victims sustained serious injuries. While some received first aid at nearby patent medicine stores, others were rushed to hospitals for further treatment.

As of the time of filing this report, emergency responders had yet to arrive at the scene, creating a security gap that reportedly allowed hoodlums to loot goods from affected shops and the damaged facility.

Hundreds of residents gathered at the scene, with some attempting to contain the fire using sand, water and other improvised means.

Witness accounts of the cause of the explosion varied. Some residents alleged that it may have been triggered by a customer making a phone call near the gas dispensing area.

However, a mechanic, Ekpenyong Sam, who works opposite the station, attributed the incident to a possible electrical fault or faulty equipment.

“I suspect it could be an electrical issue or maybe some of the equipment in the station had expired,” he said.

The incident also sparked emotional scenes, as parents of affected children were seen crying and frantically searching for their wards.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said officers had been deployed to the scene.

He added that efforts were underway to mobilise fire service personnel, including support from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), to contain the situation.

Further details are expected as emergency responders take control of the area.