A devastating fire outbreak at a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) retail outlet in Hadejia town, Jigawa State, on Saturday evening caused widespread panic and destroyed three shops, two vehicles, and a motorcycle. The incident occurred along Katagum Road when a gas delivery truck arrived to offload supplies, according to eyewitnesses. The fire is believed to have been triggered by the preparation of tofu, locally known as “awara,” near the gas facility, where an open flame came into contact with the gas, leading to a massive explosion.
The explosion sent shockwaves through the community, with residents and traders fleeing the area in fear for their safety. Some attempted to rescue goods from nearby shops before the flames spread further. One eyewitness described the scene as terrifying, saying the explosions sounded “like bomb blasts” as multiple gas cylinders burst in rapid succession. “We saw thick smoke covering the area, and everyone started running,” the witness recounted, highlighting the chaos that ensued.
Fire service personnel, supported by security agencies, responded swiftly to the scene and managed to contain the blaze before it could spread to more buildings. Their prompt action prevented further destruction and potential loss of life. The Jigawa State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesman, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, who stated that no lives were lost during the fire. He also confirmed that three shops were completely destroyed, along with two vehicles and one motorcycle.
SP Adam noted that the fire was successfully extinguished with the help of other security agencies. Although the exact financial loss has not yet been officially calculated, residents estimated the damage to run into millions of naira. Eyewitnesses also reported that more than 10 gas cylinders exploded during the inferno, adding to the intensity and danger of the situation.
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at gas outlets, especially in densely populated areas. It also underscores the need for stricter regulations and public awareness on handling flammable materials. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to determine the exact cause and hold responsible parties accountable. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with improper handling of LPG and the importance of safety measures in commercial operations.
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