A devastating petrol tanker explosion along the Ugwu Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway has left at least 15 people dead, including three children, and reduced several vehicles to ashes. The tragedy, which occurred on Saturday at approximately 11:30 a.m., sent shockwaves through the community, leaving behind a trail of destruction and grief.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing scene, describing how the fuel-laden tanker lost control while descending the hilly and busy expressway. “The tanker tipped over, spilling its contents,” said Chike Okeke, a trader who narrowly escaped the incident. “Seconds later, there was a loud explosion, and the entire area was engulfed in flames.”
The fire’s intensity quickly spread to another petrol tanker nearby, exacerbating the chaos. Six additional vehicles caught fire, trapping many of their occupants. Most of the victims were reportedly burned beyond recognition, while others succumbed to the flames while attempting to flee the scene.
Fire Rages, Rescue Efforts Stalled
Emergency responders faced significant challenges in containing the fire and reaching survivors. According to Franklin Agbakoba Onyekwere, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Enugu, rescue efforts were hindered by the ferocity of the flames. “I was at the scene, and the fire made it extremely difficult to access the victims,” Onyekwere told reporters. He confirmed that a detailed assessment of casualties was still underway.
Bystanders who rushed to the scene said they were powerless against the raging inferno. “The heat was unbearable,” said Uchenna Eze, a motorist who witnessed the explosion. “We couldn’t get close to help anyone. It was heartbreaking to see people screaming for help.”
Casualties and Immediate Impact
Although official figures are yet to be finalized, preliminary reports indicate that at least 15 people lost their lives. Among the victims were children and adults trapped in their vehicles. The fire also razed goods and property worth millions of naira, adding a financial dimension to the tragedy.
Some witnesses speculated that a mechanical fault or brake failure might have caused the tanker to lose control. However, others suggested that the road’s poor condition and steep incline could have played a role. The Ugwu Onyeama section of the expressway is notorious for its treacherous terrain and frequent accidents.
Calls for Action
The incident has reignited calls for stricter safety measures on Nigerian highways, particularly concerning fuel transportation. “This tragedy underscores the urgent need to improve road safety and enforce regulations for tankers carrying flammable materials,” said Ngozi Eke, a safety advocate in Enugu. “The government must ensure that only roadworthy vehicles ply these routes, and that drivers receive proper training.”
Residents also urged authorities to address the state of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. “This road has been neglected for too long,” said Emmanuel Nweke, a community leader in Ugwu Onyeama. “Potholes and lack of proper maintenance make it a death trap.”
Recurring Tragedies
Saturday’s explosion is not the first of its kind in Nigeria. Similar incidents involving petrol tankers have claimed numerous lives in recent years, highlighting systemic challenges in road safety and fuel transport. In 2019, an explosion in Onitsha killed over 20 people, while a similar incident in Lagos in 2021 resulted in multiple fatalities.
Experts warn that without proactive measures, such disasters will continue to occur. “The combination of poor infrastructure, inadequate regulation, and human error creates a perfect storm for these accidents,” said Dr. Peter Okon, a transportation analyst.
Community Mourns
As news of the tragedy spread, residents of Enugu expressed grief and solidarity with the victims’ families. Churches and community organizations have begun mobilizing support for those affected. “Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones,” said Father Joseph Ike of a local parish. “We pray for strength and healing during this difficult time.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly. Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, assured Nigerians that steps would be taken to prevent future occurrences. “We cannot afford to lose more lives to preventable accidents,” he said in a statement.
