Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion Claims 18 Lives
A devastating incident occurred in Enugu on Saturday, when a petrol tanker exploded at the Ugwu Onyeama area of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 people, including three children.
Thirteen others were rescued as confirmed by a statement from Olusegun Ogungbemide, spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Ogungbemide explained that the explosion was caused by brake failure, involving a total of 17 vehicles, including the petrol tanker, a water tanker, 15 cars, and a tricycle.
The fire consumed 11 of the vehicles, while emergency responders managed to rescue 10 individuals who sustained various injuries.
Three others managed to escape unharmed, but the remaining 18 victims were tragically burnt beyond recognition.
The explosion, which occurred around 11:30 am, caused widespread fear, affecting another petrol tanker and destroying six other vehicles.
The intensity of the fire made it challenging for bystanders to assist, as some victims were caught by the flames while attempting to flee the scene.
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, visited the site of the accident and expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
He assured the public that the government had taken immediate steps to ensure that survivors received proper medical care.
The governor also outlined plans to prevent similar incidents in the future, including the enforcement of road safety regulations and repairs to damaged sections of the federal road.
Governor Mbah described the incident as deeply unfortunate and extended his condolences to the victims’ families.
He also instructed the Enugu sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Franklin Agbakoba, and the state’s Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Obi Ozor, to ensure that tankers carrying flammable substances in the state are equipped with anti-spill locks to prevent accidents in the future.
“This incident appears to have been caused by brake failure, which led to the tanker’s fall, spilling its contents—premium motor spirit—into the road and igniting.
“It’s a tragic event with casualties, and while investigations are still in the early stages, we are committed to uncovering the full cause,” Mbah stated.
He continued, “We’ve already taken steps to move the injured to hospitals for medical attention.
“My health team, including the Commissioner for Health, the Special Adviser on Health, and the Chief Medical Director of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital (ESUTTH), are actively involved in ensuring the best care for the survivors.”
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The governor also discussed the need for long-term preventive measures.
“In addition to enforcing regulations on anti-spill locks for tankers, we are exploring ways to introduce traffic rules to reduce such incidents.
We cannot wait for federal intervention; we are committed to fixing the damaged parts of the federal road immediately to prevent a recurrence.”
According to the FRSC’s preliminary investigation, the cause of the explosion was linked to brake failure, leading to the spill and fire.
The sector commander expressed gratitude for the governor’s swift response and for taking responsibility for the medical expenses of the injured.
This latest explosion marked the third such incident in the country this year.
Earlier, another tanker explosion occurred at Dikko Junction in Niger State, claiming 98 lives and leaving 69 others injured.
A similar tragedy also occurred in Agbor, Delta State, on January 6, where five people were killed, and several buildings were damaged.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
