Victims of Abia filling station fire seek urgent government support
Victims of a devastating fire at a petroleum filling station in Nkwoegwu Community, Umuahia North, have described massive losses and are appealing for government intervention. Chinonso Ahamefula, the station owner, revealed that the incident destroyed infrastructure worth about N140 million and left the area without its only fuel station. Oluchi Nwosu and other affected residents have also called for help, saying their homes and shops were lost in the blaze. State officials praised the quick response of the fire service, which prevented further destruction and loss of life.
What we know
- The fire started while fuel was being offloaded from a tanker at about 6:15 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, quickly engulfing the filling station.
- Chinonso Ahamefula said the inferno destroyed pumps, a solar system, and other assets, totaling about N140 million in losses.
- The Abia State Fire Service arrived promptly and worked for over six to seven hours to contain the fire, with help from the community and the Federal Fire Service.
- Oluchi Nwosu said her family lost their home and shop, but expressed gratitude that no lives were lost.
- Chukwunenye Alajemba, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, confirmed the fire service’s swift response and stated that the governor would review requests for rebuilding assistance.
