A devastating fire explosion rocked a filling station opposite the Nigerian Air Force Base in Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Thursday.

According to eyewitness accounts, the inferno originated from the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) section of the station, commonly known as the cooking gas area.

The fire rapidly spread to nearby properties, including a church and a bar. Several vehicles parked in the vicinity were also caught in the blaze and damaged.

Social media platforms were flooded with viral videos capturing the chaotic scene, showing thick plumes of smoke rising into the air as terrified onlookers screamed and fled for safety.

Emergency responders from the fire service arrived at the scene and have successfully contained the fire, preventing further escalation and destruction of properties in the area.

As of the time of this report, authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of the explosion or confirm if there were any casualties resulting from the incident.

This incident comes amid growing concerns about safety standards at gas stations across Nigeria, particularly those with LPG facilities located in densely populated areas.

Residents of Port Harcourt have been advised to exercise caution and maintain a safe distance from the affected area as investigations continue.