An explosion at a petrol and gas filling station has left several people injured and caused widespread damage in Calabar, southern Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning at Fonex Gas Station, located on Edibe Edibe Street in Calabar South. The blast triggered a fire that engulfed large parts of the facility, including fuel and gas storage tanks, and destroyed vehicles within the premises.
The station, situated in a densely populated neighbourhood, also affected nearby shops and buildings, forcing residents and business owners to flee.
Several people sustained injuries, with some receiving initial treatment at nearby medicine stores while others were taken to hospital for further care.
Emergency responders were not immediately present at the scene. Witnesses said the delay created a security gap, during which some individuals reportedly looted goods from affected shops and the damaged station.
Residents were seen attempting to contain the fire using sand, water and other improvised methods before official assistance arrived.
Accounts of the cause of the explosion vary. Some witnesses suggested that it may have been triggered by a mobile phone used near the gas dispensing area. Others pointed to a possible electrical fault or faulty equipment at the station.
“I suspect it could be an electrical issue or maybe some of the equipment in the station had expired,” said a local mechanic working opposite the facility.
Police authorities in Cross River State confirmed the incident and said officers had been deployed to the scene.
A police spokesperson stated that efforts were underway to mobilise fire service personnel, with additional support expected from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
Emotional scenes were also reported, as some parents were seen searching for their children in the aftermath of the explosion.
Authorities say further details will be provided as emergency teams continue efforts to bring the situation under control.
