Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, have expressed sadness over the tragic Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion. The incident occurred along the Ugwu Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, claiming 18 lives.
The explosion, which took place around 11:30 am, created widespread panic. It involved another petrol tanker and six vehicles caught in the inferno.
Eyewitnesses Describe the Devastating Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion
Witnesses said the explosion occurred when a tanker carrying fuel toppled on the hilly expressway. They described the blast as devastating, with flames engulfing another truck, escalating the fire.
Rescue efforts were severely hindered due to the intensity of the blaze. Victims, including those attempting to flee, were reportedly burnt beyond recognition. The tragedy left an emotional scar on the Coal City.
Atiku Urges Action Following Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed profound grief over the Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion. He extended condolences to the victims’ families via his X handle, urging immediate government intervention.
“Oh dear, not again! My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all the victims of the fuel tanker explosion in Enugu State. May their souls find eternal rest,” he posted.
Atiku labeled the frequent tanker explosions as a national emergency requiring immediate inquiry. He emphasized that addressing these incidents should be a government priority.
Governor Mbah Takes Action After Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion
Governor Peter Mbah visited the explosion site for an on-the-spot assessment. He expressed sadness and outlined measures to address the tragedy and prevent future occurrences.
Governor Mbah directed the enforcement of road safety rules and immediate repairs to the affected federal road. He also emphasized the importance of anti-spill locks for tankers transporting inflammable substances.
“This accident involved a tanker, and preliminary investigations suggest a brake failure led to the spill and ignition. We have some casualties. The police and other agencies are working to uncover the true cause,” Mbah stated.
He assured that victims requiring treatment were being moved to hospitals. The Commissioner for Health and the Chief Medical Director of Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital (ESUTTH) were tasked with ensuring adequate medical care for survivors.
Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion: A Call for Stricter Road Safety
Governor Mbah pledged quick action to prevent another Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion. He promised to collaborate with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enforce stricter regulations.
“Tanker drivers must have anti-spill locks to avoid fuel spills during accidents. It is non-negotiable,” the governor declared.
He further added, “Our government will fix the bad sections of the road immediately to ensure the safety of road users. We cannot wait for the federal government.”
The FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Franklin Agbakoba, briefed the governor, confirming the tanker’s brake failure caused the spill. He revealed that 11 people died on the spot, while others were rushed to hospitals for treatment.
Governor Mbah commended the FRSC and other responders for their efforts and promised to cover the survivors’ medical bills.
