Another Calabar fuel station fire damages vehicles, shops

A fuel station fire erupted in Calabar, Cross River State, following an explosion at Scanobo Filling Station along Ikot Ekpo, 8 Miles. The incident occurred around 4 pm on Thursday, October 15, seven months after a similar blaze in the Edibe-Edibe axis of Calabar South, where residents were injured and properties damaged. The latest accident affected five vehicles and two shops near the filling station.

No lives were lost, and the fire was extinguished within 20 minutes of being reported. The Cross River State Police Command received the initial report from a concerned resident, who alerted the divisional police officer. Police personnel swiftly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the affected area and supporting firefighting efforts.

Preliminary information suggests the fire may have stemmed from a gas explosion within the station, though the exact cause awaits further investigation. Law enforcement has teamed up with the state Fire Service to probe the incident's origins. The March incident in Calabar South resulted in injuries and property damage, echoing concerns about the safety of petroleum retail outlets near residential areas and businesses.

The police have urged residents and business owners to adhere to fire-safety protocols and promptly report emergencies. Public cooperation and avoidance of interference in investigations were also stressed. Additional details will be released as the inquiry unfolds.