'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – Tragedy struck in Enugu State today as a petroleum tanker crash resulted in a devastating fire, claiming 18 lives and leaving 13 others rescued. The accident, which occurred due to a brake failure, involved 17 vehicles, including a petroleum-laden tanker, a water tanker, 15 other vehicles, and a tricycle.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps spokesperson, Oluwasegun Ogungbemide, 31 individuals were caught in the crash. Among them, 10 people sustained varying degrees of injuries, while three escaped unharmed. Tragically, 18 victims were burned beyond recognition in the inferno that followed the crash.
The FRSC’s preliminary report revealed that the petroleum tanker, loaded with premium motor spirit, experienced brake failure, causing the driver to lose control. The tanker crashed into other vehicles, triggering a fire that engulfed 11 vehicles.
Emergency responders, including the Enugu State Government and security agencies, swung into action to manage the situation. Key officials on-site included the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Bar. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, commissioners for transportation and health, the state’s police commissioner, the FRSC Zonal Commanding Officer for RS9 Enugu, the Sector Commander, and the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS).
To ease traffic along the affected route, vehicles are being diverted to the inward Enugu lane as efforts to clear the charred wreckage continue.
In his statement, FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also advised motorists to exercise caution and use alternative routes for their safety and convenience.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with brake failures and the need for stricter compliance with vehicle maintenance standards.
