Fire Guts Petrol Tanker at Fuel Station Opposite Kogi Varsity

Fire Guts Petrol Tanker at Fuel Station Opposite Kogi Varsity

A devastating fire incident occurred on Thursday night at the Himsu, now MRS fuel station, situated directly opposite Prince Abubakar Audu University in Anyigba, Kogi State.

The blaze erupted while a petrol-laden tanker was dispensing fuel within the station premises, sparking immediate panic among motorists, students, and residents in the university community.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the inferno spread rapidly, damaging critical equipment and parts of the fuel station before efforts were made to contain it. The absence of a nearby fire service station meant the fire raged for several hours, intensifying fears that it could engulf surrounding student lodges and residential buildings.

However, timely intervention by local residents and passersby helped prevent the flames from spreading beyond the station.

Despite the scale of destruction, no casualties were recorded. The incident underscores the vulnerability of communities where essential emergency services are lacking, as the fire could have escalated into a much larger disaster.

The event also highlights the recurring challenge of fire outbreaks in Nigeria, with similar incidents recently reported in Ibadan, Rivers State, Gombe, and Kano.

The aftermath of the Anyigba fire leaves behind significant property damage and raises urgent questions about safety protocols at fuel stations, the adequacy of fire service infrastructure, and the preparedness of communities to respond to emergencies.

For the students and residents of Prince Abubakar Audu University, the night was a stark reminder of how quickly routine activities can turn into life-threatening situations.