A deadly tanker explosion on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway left many feared dead and eight vehicles destroyed. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour, with emergency teams working to evacuate victims and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities are investigating the cause of the tragedy.
A devastating fuel tanker explosion on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway at the Ugwu-Onyeama axis has left many feared dead and resulted in the destruction of eight vehicles. The explosion, which occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, is suspected to have been caused by a tanker carrying petroleum.
Enugu State Fire Service Director, Chief Okwudili Ohaa, confirmed the incident, stating that the fire burned for over an hour before firefighters were able to control the blaze. While the exact number of fatalities has not been confirmed, emergency agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), are working to recover the bodies of victims.
The fire was so intense that it required reinforcements from nearby stations, including Ogui Road and Government House Fire Stations. A total of 10 firefighters worked together to douse the flames, with paramilitary personnel arriving later to assist in evacuating the injured and transporting them to local hospitals.
Eyewitnesses described the explosion as catastrophic, with thick smoke obstructing rescue efforts. Many people fled the scene in panic, and some victims and vehicles were reportedly burned beyond recognition.
The fire service has expressed gratitude to the public for their prompt response in alerting authorities, while investigations continue into the cause and full extent of the disaster.
