Two persons have lost their lives while two others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a tanker fire explosion along the Agu-Awka axis of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, Awka.
The incident, which occurred in front of a fuel station, involved a fully loaded diesel tanker belonging to Shafa Filling Station and a 911 truck loaded with bags of feed.
The diesel truck was said to have suffered brake failure and collided with the 911 truck, resulting in a fire outbreak.
Confirming the incident on Friday, Chief Fire Officer of the State Fire Service, Engr. Chiketa Chukwudi said two persons lost their lives, while two others who sustained varying degrees of injuries were rescued and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
Chiketa, who was personally present at the scene, commended the firefighters for their prompt response, urging motorists and other road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly when approaching sloping areas, especially trucks loaded with petroleum products.
He also reiterated call on motorists to ensure their vehicles were properly maintained and that critical components, especially braking systems, are routinely checked to prevent avoidable accidents.
He said, “The Anambra State Fire Service has responded to a serious road traffic accident involving a fully loaded diesel tanker belonging to Shafa Filling Station and a 911 truck loaded with bags of feed along the Agu-Awka axis of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, Awka.
“The incident occurred in front of Jezco Fuel Station, Agu-Awka, at 2326 hours and was reported to the Anambra State Fire Service, which promptly mobilised its firefighters and firefighting equipment to the scene.
“Preliminary information indicates that the accident occurred when the diesel truck reportedly suffered brake failure and collided with the 911 truck, resulting in a fire outbreak.
“Sadly, two persons lost their lives in the incident, while two others who sustained varying degrees of injuries were rescued and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
“As at the time of this report, firefighters remained at the scene, working to control the situation and prevent further escalation.”
