A massive fire outbreak has reportedly engulfed the Port Harcourt Eleme Refinery in Rivers State following an explosion on Wednesday, according to sources on the ground.
Eyewitnesses claim flames and thick black smoke could be seen billowing from the refinery, sparking fears of a major industrial disaster. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and no official statement has been issued by authorities.
“We heard a loud explosion, and within minutes, fire erupted at the refinery,” a local resident told reporters. “People are panicking because the fire seems uncontrollable.”
READ ALSO:Â NNPCL to hand over Port Harcourt refinery to private operators
Emergency responders have yet to confirm the extent of the damage or any possible casualties. However, residents in nearby areas are reportedly fleeing for safety as fears mount over the spread of the fire.
As of press time, efforts to reach the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Rivers State Fire Service for confirmation were unsuccessful.
This is a developing story…