35 feared dead as explosion rocks Rivers

At least, 35 persons are feared dead following an explosion in an illegal oil refining site in Ibas community, Emuoha local government area of Rivers state.

It was gathered that the incident occurred late Sunday night when some people in the community numbering over 40 were scooping petroleum product.

A close source in the community, identified a Emmanuel, said the victims were selling the product at the refining site when the place suddenly went up in flames.

He further said people from neighbouring Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state, Ibaa and Oduoha in Emohua LGA, were affected.

According to Emmanuel, “More than 40 people were there at the site. They were there scooping and bagging crude oil when the place caught fire.

“The fire came from a refining site that is close to the point where they were bagging the crude.

“Many Isiokpo, Oduoha and Ibaa people were there. Seven of the people died inside the pit where they were scooping the crude. About 10 burnt to charcoal by the pit.

“About 30 people died at the site while over 15 have been rushed to the hospital. I hear that three of them have died while they were being rushed to the hospital.”

Confirming the incident, Chairman of Emuoha local government area, Dr Chidi Lloyd, said it is unfortunate that some youths were still engaging in the illicit trade despite repeated warnings and public advocacy to educate them on the inherent dangers.

When contacted, spokesperson for the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said she would find out and get back to our correspondent.

As of the time of filing this report Monday evening, Blueprint correspondent had not received a response from her.

Similarly, Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Rivers state command, Olufemi Ayodele, said the anti-vandal unit has been dispatched to investigate the incident.