Developing Story: Firefighters Step Back from Minna Petrol Tanker Fire, Water Supply Runs Dry

 

Firefighters have withdrawn from the scene of a raging petrol-laden tanker fire in Minna, Niger State, citing a lack of adequate water and firefighting chemicals as the blaze intensified.

According to Sahara Reporters, the incident occurred on Saturday along the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Western Bypass, a major route in Minna, after a tanker fully loaded with premium motor spirit (PMS) overturned and burst into flames.

Sahara Reporters learnt that the explosion happened near Mandela Junction, beside the National Examinations Council (NECO) office—a highly sensitive area located close to the Niger State House of Assembly and the state secretariat, raising serious safety concerns.

Further findings by Sahara Reporters revealed that the tanker had just departed the NNPC Mega Station when it caught fire. In a desperate attempt to prevent the fire from spreading within the filling station, the driver reportedly drove the burning tanker onto the highway before it eventually overturned.

Eyewitnesses said both federal and state fire service officials initially responded to the emergency but later vacated the scene after complaining of insufficient water supply and lack of firefighting chemicals, leaving the inferno largely uncontrolled.

“Both the federal and state firefighters have left the scene due to lack of adequate water and chemicals as the situation continues to escalate,” a source told Sahara Reporters.

The tanker driver reportedly sustained partial injuries in the incident and was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire remains unknown, while residents and commuters around the area have been urged to stay away due to the risk of explosion from the spilled fuel.

This is a developing story, and more details are expected to emerge.

SOURCE :Sahara Reporters