Petrol Tanker Explosion Kills Two, Injures One in Anambra State
Petrol Tanker Explosion Kills Two, Injures One in Anambra State
A petrol tanker explosion has claimed the lives of two people and left another person injured in Anambra State, following a tragic road accident involving a fuel-laden truck.
The incident occurred on Sunday along the Onitsha–Owerri Road, a major commercial and traffic route in the state. According to eyewitnesses, the tanker was travelling along the highway when it reportedly lost control, crashed, and burst into flames, triggering a loud explosion that sent shockwaves across the area.
Residents and road users described the scene as chaotic, as the fire quickly spread around the crash site. Two people, believed to be the tanker driver and his assistant, were confirmed dead at the scene, while one other victim sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Emergency responders, includipng personnel from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies, arrived at the scene to control the fire and manage traffic. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze before it could spread further to nearby vehicles and buildings, preventing a larger disaster.
An FRSC official in the state said preliminary investigations suggest that the accident may have been caused by excessive speed and possible brake failure, although a full investigation is still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the crash. The official also warned motorists and tanker drivers to observe safety measures and adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent similar incidents.
The explosion caused significant disruption to traffic along the busy highway, with commuters and traders forced to seek alternative routes as authorities cordoned off the area for safety reasons. Some residents expressed concern over the frequent occurrence of tanker accidents on major roads, calling on the government to strengthen safety enforcement and improve road conditions.
Fuel tanker explosions have remained a recurring safety concern in Nigeria, often resulting in loss of lives, property damage, and environmental hazards due to the highly flammable nature of petroleum products.
Authorities have urged the public to stay away from accident scenes involving fuel tankers and other hazardous materials, warning that such situations can escalate quickly and pose serious risks to bystanders.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, while the injured victim is reportedly receiving treatment at a medical facility in the state.
