Abuja filling station fire injures three firefighters, damages FIRS office

A Thursday night fire at the AYM Shafa filling station in Abuja's Area 3 Garki has left three firefighters injured, with one in intensive care. The blaze reportedly ignited after a fuel tanker filled with petrol exploded, quickly engulfing the station and spreading to adjacent buildings.

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Owing to the magnitude of the incident, other fire service authorities also joined the emergency response, resulting in a coordinated inter-agency firefighting operation.

The FCT Fire Service received the distress call around 9:44 p.m. and mobilized personnel and equipment. The magnitude of the incident prompted a coordinated response from multiple fire service authorities and other emergency agencies. During the firefighting efforts, three firefighters sustained injuries. One is currently receiving critical medical care at the National Hospital's Trauma Centre, while the other two are being treated at Alliance Hospital.

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In the course of controlling and putting the fire off, three of our fire fighters were grossly injured, with one currently receiving intensive medical care at the Trauma Centre of National Hospital, Abuja.

Preliminary assessments indicate the fire affected the filling station's premises, including 13 fuel dispensing pumps, three of which were directly impacted. A fuel tanker carrying approximately 45,000 liters of petroleum product was also consumed by the flames. Additionally, two civilian vehicles were destroyed, and parts of the Federal Revenue Service (FRS) office and the adjacent Ahmad Plaza were damaged.

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Members of the public are advised to refrain from speculation and await the outcome of the official investigation.

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the FCT Fire Service has urged the public to refrain from speculation. The service also commended the bravery and professionalism of all responding personnel, whose prompt intervention reportedly prevented a more catastrophic disaster. Operators of fuel stations and commercial facilities are reminded to strictly comply with fire safety regulations and ensure regular maintenance of fire protection systems.

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Preliminary damage assessment reveals that 13 fuel dispensing pumps were within the affected facility. Three fuel dispensers were directly affected by the fire, while two civilian vehicles were completely burnt.