A major fire ripped through a tank farm in Apapa, Lagos State on Friday morning, igniting a war of words about the location and cause of the blaze.
Discordant Reports:
- Lagos Fire Service Blames NNPC: The Lagos State Fire Service (LSFRS) cast blame on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), stating the fire erupted at their depot. They detailed receiving an emergency call at 11:27 am and promptly dispatching firefighters. Amodu Shakiru, the LSFRS Director of Public Affairs, pinpointed the fire’s origin as a spillage of petroleum products within the confines of the tank farm, specifically at the “new NNPC Terminal, formerly OVH, Kayode Street, Marine Beach, Apapa.”
- NNPCL Refutes Claims: The NNPCL vehemently contested the LSFRS report, calling it inaccurate. Their spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, emphatically denied the fire involved their depot. He asserted that the fire originated not at the NNPC facility but at a pipeline belonging to Honeywell Oil and Gas (HOGL). Soneye further insisted the fire had already been extinguished by the time reports emerged.
Lingering Questions:
- Unclear Location: The conflicting reports from the Lagos State Fire Service and the NNPCL shroud the exact location of the fire in mystery. Determining the precise location of the fire is crucial for several reasons. First, it can help investigators pinpoint the cause of the blaze and identify any potential safety violations. Second, it can help emergency responders assess the risk of future incidents and take appropriate precautions. Finally, it can alleviate public concerns about the safety of surrounding neighbourhoods and infrastructure.
- Cause of Spill Unknown: The cause of the petroleum product spillage that ignited the fire remains unreported, leaving a gap in understanding the incident’s root cause. Identifying the cause of the spill is critical to preventing similar incidents in the future. Possible causes of spills at tank farms include pipeline corrosion, faulty equipment, or human error. A thorough investigation is needed to determine the root cause and implement preventative measures.
Fire Contained Despite Confusion:
Fortunately, both parties concur that emergency responders, including the LSFRS and industry personnel, effectively contained the fire, preventing further catastrophe despite the confusion regarding the location.
