A fire erupted on Saturday morning, engulfing a petrol station in Itam, Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, and consuming an entire truckload of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in the blaze.

It was gathered that firefighters from the state fire service, assisted by police personnel, arrived at the scene and battled the blaze for hours before it was eventually brought under control.

Motorists plying the Itam-Ikot Ada Idem road, which connects Ikot Ekpene to Uyo, reported that the fire began a few hours earlier. Witnesses said the intensity of the flames appeared to overwhelm the firefighters initially.

“I am only afraid the fire might result in the loss of lives. Property and resources lost can be regained, but we don’t want any human life to be affected,” a motorist at the scene expressed.

As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire outbreak had not been determined. However, the Police confirmed that no casualties were recorded.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, speaking to Sunday Vanguard via telephone, stated, “When the fire started, the Police were contacted. Right now, an investigation is ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire outbreak. Information at my disposal indicates that no casualty was recorded.”

Investigation into the incident continues.