A tragic incident unfolded on Friday night on a section of the east-west road in Eleme, Rivers state, as tankers carrying petroleum products burst into flames, claiming an unspecified number of lives.
The explosion left travellers stranded for hours, with some victims trapped in their vehicles as the blasts raged.
Eyewitnesses attributed the cause of the explosions to dangerous driving and negligence, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.
According to Segun Owolabi, an eyewitness, the incident began with a tanker colliding with a vehicle, setting off a chain reaction of explosions. He described a harrowing scene of burnt vehicles and casualties, with over 20 vehicles consumed by the flames and numerous individuals trapped.
Another eyewitness reported hearing a loud explosion emanating from a petrochemical complex nearby, adding to the chaos and devastation of the situation.
The Nation quoted witnesses recounting the horrific aftermath of the incident, underscoring the magnitude of the tragedy and the urgent need for investigation and support for the affected community.
