The death toll from the tanker explosion on the Ugwu-Onyeama axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway has risen to 18, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed.
Mr. Franklin Agbakoba, the Sector Commander of the FRSC in Enugu State, made the announcement on Sunday, revealing the updated figure. The explosion occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday when a fuel-laden tanker, experiencing brake failure, collided with 17 vehicles. The resulting fire destroyed 11 vehicles and claimed multiple lives.
Originally, the death toll was reported as 11, but Agbakoba stated that seven additional victims, who had been rushed to nearby hospitals, succumbed to their injuries. “The current death toll stands at 18. We continue to pray for the souls of the departed to find eternal rest. However, three individuals, who were initially profiled, were unharmed and have since reunited with their families,” he said.
The affected vehicles included one fuel tanker, one water tanker, 15 cars, and a tricycle. FRSC officers and the Enugu State Fire Service worked together to extinguish the blaze and evacuate the injured, who were then transported to hospitals in Enugu for medical attention.
Governor Peter Mbah visited the scene and expressed condolences to the victims’ families. He also assured that the state government would cover the medical expenses of the injured. In response to the tragedy, the governor announced plans to improve road safety by enforcing stricter traffic regulations and addressing the deteriorating condition of parts of the federal road.
