By Yadnom Awu | Asaba
A raging fire has reportedly engulfed parts of Agbor, the headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the city’s skyline and raising fears over the extent of damage.
Although details of the incident remain sketchy, a source told *The Blaze* that the inferno allegedly started after a petrol tanker ruptured and spilled its contents following a collision with another vehicle.
The spilled petroleum product reportedly flowed through a drainage channel into the Orogodo River before igniting under circumstances that remain unclear.
The fire is said to have spread rapidly along the drainage channel from the river towards the scene of the incident near the Anglican Church, beside Orogodo Primary School, causing widespread destruction.
A source who works at the local government council told *The Blaze* that several buildings had been consumed by the inferno, including the popular Festy Chemist medical store and adjoining structures.
As of press time, no official statement had been issued on the incident. However, preliminary reports indicated that no fatalities had been recorded, although this could not be independently confirmed.
A video circulating online showed the ill-fated tanker engulfed in flames, underscoring the intensity of the fire.
The incident comes just days after a petrol tanker fire at Oluku, near Benin City, Edo State, reportedly claimed several lives after a tanker overturned while reversing. Many of the victims were said to have been scooping petrol spilled during the incident.
Agbor also witnessed a similar tragedy last year when a petrol tanker fire along the old Lagos–Asaba Road caused multiple casualties and destroyed buildings.
The latest incident has once again raised concerns about the dangers associated with petrol tanker accidents, fuel spillages and the rapid spread of fires in populated areas.
Further details, including the cause of the fire, the extent of the damage and any possible casualties, are expected as more information emerges.
