Tragic events occurred in Enugu State on Saturday when a tanker exploded at Ugwu Onyeama, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, in the Udi Local Government Area, killing at least 18 persons and injuring 13 more.
Around 11.30 AM, a fuel-laden tanker was descending a slope when it struck a JUHEL Nigeria Limited water truck, causing an explosion that sent shockwaves through the community.
In a statement released on Saturday, Federal Road Safety Corps spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide said that 17 vehicles were involved in the collision, including a tricycle, 15 cars, a water tanker, and a gasoline tanker.
The fuel truck carrying premium motor spirit lost control after its brakes failed, causing a collision that led to a fire incident, according to the FRSC’s first reports.
“A total of 31 people were involved in the crash,” Ogungbemide stated. Three escaped unharmed, while ten were rescued with various injuries. Regretfully, the remaining 18 victims suffered irreparable burns.
The statement said, “The tanker’s brakes failed, and the driver lost control, causing a collision with 17 vehicles.”
