ABUJA, Nigeria – An explosion at an unlawful oil refinery in southeast Nigeria has killed greater than 50 folks and injured many, state officers and police stated on Saturday.

Based on a report by Lagos-based Punch newspaper, the loss of life toll might exceed 100. It’s being informed that the fireplace unfold to close by properties.

Imo State Commissioner for Data Deccan Amelumba stated the fireplace began on Friday night time and unfold to 2 gasoline storage areas situated on the unlawful crude oil refinery, leaving the premises “engulfed by hearth that unfold quickly”.

Amelumba stated the quick explanation for the blast and the deaths, accidents and damages have been being investigated.

“Lots of people have been killed. These killed are all unlawful operators,” stated Imo State Police Command spokesman Michael Abattam. The Imo state authorities can also be looking for the proprietor of the refinery the place the explosion occurred, an official stated. and declared him as a wished individual.

Unlawful refineries are frequent in Nigeria the place shady enterprise operators typically evade laws and taxes by organising refineries in distant areas, away from the eyes of the authorities.

The observe is so widespread that it’s affecting Nigeria’s crude oil manufacturing within the oil-rich Niger Delta area. Nigeria is the biggest producer of crude oil in Africa, however has only a few refineries and consequently most gasoline and different fuels are imported.