Over 15 burnt to dead as petrol tanker bust into flames in Enugu

Tragedy struck on Saturday, January 24, 2025, as a petrol tanker exploded along the Ugwu Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, claiming at least 15 lives, including three children.

The explosion, which occurred around 11:30 a.m., created widespread panic as another petrol tanker and six other vehicles were engulfed in flames.

Witnesses reported that the accident happened when a fuel-laden tanker overturned while navigating the busy hilly expressway. The resulting fire spread rapidly, igniting another truck and escalating the blaze.

Rescue efforts were severely hampered due to the intensity of the fire, leaving bystanders unable to approach the scene. Many victims, believed to be occupants of the affected vehicles, were reportedly burned beyond recognition. Some of the deceased were said to have been caught by the flames while attempting to flee.

Speaking on the incident, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Franklin Agbakoba Onyekwere, confirmed his presence at the scene but noted that a full assessment of the situation was still underway.