Gunmen set building ablaze, destroy vehicles in Enugu

September 21, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

Gunmen suspected to be secessionists struck Pinnacle Filling Station on Agbani Road, Enugu, on Friday morning, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic” as the attackers, numbering four, arrived at the station around 10:00 a.m. in a Toyota Corolla.

They snatched fuel pump nozzles from attendants, splashed fuel on nearby vehicles, and set them ablaze, igniting panic in the area.

“I was inside the station when I heard shouting and screams,” said Chika Ugwu, a customer who narrowly escaped the inferno. “The next thing I saw was flames engulfing the cars. It was terrifying.”

Four cars belonging to customers were completely destroyed, along with three additional vehicles at a nearby car wash.

The entire filling station suffered extensive fire damage.

Firefighters from the Enugu State Fire and Emergency Service quickly responded to contain the blaze, while the state Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Abdurrahman, led a team to assess the damage.

“This is a senseless act of violence that will not be tolerated,” Abdurrahman said. “We are working tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”

The attack caused widespread panic, prompting businesses and residents in the vicinity to shut down.

Police cordoned off Agbani Road, diverting motorists to alternative routes.

The Enugu State Police Command has launched an investigation into the attack, which is believed to be linked to secessionist activities.

“This incident is a clear indication of the escalating security challenges in the region,” said Emeka Umerah, a local resident. “The government must take decisive action to protect citizens and prevent such attacks.”

As the investigation unfolds, residents are left to pick up the pieces and wonder when peace will return to their community.