A devastating fire razed a filling station in Awka, Anambra State, on Friday, destroying property valued at over N100 million. The blaze broke out at Okeb Filling Station, located on the Awka axis of the Enugu‑Onitsha Expressway, while petroleum products were being discharged.
According to Anambra State Fire Chief Mr. Chukwudi Chiketa, the fire service was not alerted when the fire started around 2 pm. He expressed regret that the people on site did not notify the fire office earlier, noting that a prompt call could have saved a substantial amount of the loss. Chiketa estimated that the damage exceeded N100 million and emphasized that earlier contact with the fire service could have resulted in reasonable savings.
The fire destroyed six petrol pump stands, a truck conveying the product, and three other utility vehicles. Chiketa urged petrol‑station operators to discharge their products at night to avoid such incidents. He also advised owners of gas stations to keep safety equipment—such as industrial fire extinguishers and sand buckets—and to ensure that their workplaces are spacious and accessible in case of emergencies.
The station’s owner, Okechukwu Ebele, expressed gratitude that none of his workers were harmed, despite the significant losses. An eyewitness, Mr. Uche Ifeleoma, reported that the fire started when an electrical spark occurred while a technician was working on the truck. Attempts to contact the state fire service were hampered by unresponsive phone lines, and the fire quickly overwhelmed those on site.
The state fire chief has appealed to the public to call his personal phone number or the emergency line in case of need. Okeb Filling Station comprises several sections, including a PMS, DPK, AGO, mini‑mart, lubricant shop, and restaurant. Fortunately, the restaurant building and some parts of the complex were saved thanks to the timely arrival of the state fire service. The incident underscores the importance of fire‑safety measures and prompt emergency response.
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