By Our Correspondent
A deadly fuel tanker explosion has resulted in the loss of two lives and left another person injured along a major highway in Anambra State, causing panic and disruption in the area.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday along the Ihiala–Onitsha Road, close to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office in Ihiala Local Government Area. The petrol tanker was reportedly in motion when it lost control, crashed, and was engulfed in flames.
Eyewitnesses said the tanker collided with a vehicle and rammed into a barricade, leading to a massive fuel spill. Moments later, the spilled petrol ignited, triggering a powerful explosion that set the tanker ablaze.
As a result of the explosion, the tanker driver and his conductor lost their lives after being burnt at the scene. A motorcycle rider who was caught in the impact sustained injuries and was rushed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, for medical treatment.
The incident sparked fear among motorists and nearby residents, with thick smoke and intense flames forcing people to flee the area. Traffic along the busy highway was temporarily halted as emergency responders worked to control the situation.
Officials of the FRSC and fire service later secured the scene, cleared the wreckage, and restored traffic flow. Authorities have again urged drivers, especially operators of fuel tankers, to comply strictly with road safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
The accident has once more drawn attention to the recurring cases of fuel tanker crashes on Nigerian highways and the urgent need for improved safety measures to reduce loss of lives.
