Diesel Tanker Catches Fire at Gombe Filling Station
A diesel-laden tanker on Friday caught fire while offloading at Rain Oil Filling Station in the Tumfure area of Gombe State.
The blaze was quickly brought under control by the Federal Fire Service (FFS), preventing loss of lives and major property damage.
The incident triggered an emergency response from the FFS, Gombe State Command, following a distress call from residents in the area.
Confirming the development, the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASF MB Muazu, said firefighters were immediately deployed to the scene and succeeded in containing the blaze before it engulfed the tanker.
“Upon receiving the distress call, our officers were immediately mobilised to the scene. Through timely and professional intervention, the fire was successfully contained, averting a potentially catastrophic situation,” Muazu said.
He explained that the location of the fire posed serious danger due to its proximity to other filling stations, commercial centres and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Depot in Tumfure.
“The affected area is a highly sensitive commercial environment. Our swift response prevented a possible chain reaction that could have affected nearby facilities and properties estimated at over ₦500 million,” he added.
Muazu confirmed that no life was lost in the incident, describing the outcome as evidence of the Service’s preparedness and commitment to public safety.
He reiterated the Federal Fire Service’s commitment to protecting lives and property, while warning operators of filling stations and petroleum facilities to strictly observe safety regulations, especially during the discharge of petroleum products.
“We urge operators of filling stations and petroleum facilities to always adhere strictly to safety standards to prevent avoidable incidents of this nature,” he said.
The FFS spokesperson also commended officers of the Nigeria Police Force, Tumfure Division, and the Department of State Services (DSS) for providing security support at the scene.
“The cooperation and security cover provided by officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS greatly assisted our personnel in effectively carrying out their duties,” Muazu stated.
Residents of the area have since resumed normal activities after the situation was fully brought under control.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over tanker-related accidents nationwide.
Recall that on Christmas Day, December 25, two persons were killed after a fully loaded 33,000-litre petrol tanker exploded along the Badagry Expressway in Lagos.
The explosion occurred around 4 a.m. near the Oto-Ijanikin axis, close to the Lagos State University of Education.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
