A fuel tanker conveying diesel was on Friday gutted by fire while offloading its contents at the Rain Oil Filling Station in the Tumfure area of Gombe, Gombe State.
The incident was swiftly brought under control by the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Gombe State Command, following the prompt deployment of firefighters to the scene.
According to the Service, the fire was contained shortly after a distress call was received, averting what could have escalated into a major disaster.
Speaking on the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Fire Service, Gombe State Command, ASF MB Muazu, said the professionalism and rapid response of personnel ensured the tanker was not completely consumed by the flames.
“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 stated.
He noted that the incident posed a serious threat due to the strategic location of the filling station, which is close to other fuel outlets, commercial centres and the 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 said.
Muazu confirmed that no life was lost, describing the outcome as a reflection of the Service’s preparedness and commitment to public safety.
He reiterated the Federal Fire Service’s resolve to safeguard lives and property, urging operators of petroleum facilities to strictly comply with safety regulations, particularly during product discharge.
“We urge operators of filling stations and petroleum facilities to always adhere strictly to safety standards to prevent avoidable incidents of this nature,” he added.
The FFS spokesperson also commended officers of the Nigeria Police Force, Tumfure Division, and the Department of State Services (DSS) for providing security and 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 said.
Normal activities have since resumed in the area as the situation was fully brought under control.
The incident comes barely a day after two persons reportedly lost their lives when a fully loaded 33,000-litre petrol tanker exploded along the Badagry Expressway in Lagos on Christmas Day.