A tragic incident transpired on Saturday in Enugu when a petrol tanker exploded along the Ugwu Onyeama segment of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including three children.
The explosion, which occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m., generated widespread panic and affected another petrol tanker while also consuming six additional vehicles.
The exact cause of the incident remains unclear; however, witnesses reported that the explosion ensued when a fuel-laden tanker lost control while navigating the steep and congested expressway.
Eyewitness accounts characterize the blast as devastating, with the subsequent fire also enveloping another truck behind the initial tanker, which significantly contributed to the fire's escalation.
Rescue operations faced considerable challenges due to the intensity of the flames, impeding the ability of bystanders to approach the scene safely. Reports indicate that victims were burnt beyond recognition and are believed to be occupants of the vehicles caught in the conflagration. It has been reported that some individuals were attempting to flee the site when they were tragically caught in the blaze.
Upon being contacted, the sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Franklin Agbakoba Onyekwere, stated that he was present at the incident scene and was in the process of gathering comprehensive data regarding the event.
