NB247
A fuel tanker reportedly burst into flames in Jigawa on Thursday, January 30 at the Shakkotu filling station in Dutse, Jigawa, during offloading, causing widespread panic and significant damage to the station and nearby properties
Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion and a large fire, but authorities are yet to confirm the number of casualties or injuries
The Jigawa State Police quickly secured the scene and are investigating the incident.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. at the Shakkotu filling station along Kiyawa Road, Dutse.
However, the scene quickly turned chaotic as people fled the area in panic.
Baba Nura, an eyewitness, shared his experience with a reporter.
He said, “I was nearby when I heard a loud explosion. I rushed to the scene and saw that the fuel tanker had burst and the fire surrounded almost everywhere in the filling station.”
The Jigawa state Police Command confirmed the fire outbreak. Police spokesperson SP Shi’isu Adam said, “We received a report of the fire outbreak at about 8 p.m. Immediately, we cordoned off the area and set up barricades to secure the scene.
“We rushed to the scene with the fire service personnel. So far, there are no reports of fatalities, but our officers remain at the site, and further details will be provided later.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the explosion and assess the full extent of the damage.