Five people have tragically lost their lives, and over 70 cars were engulfed in flames during a tanker explosion at the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State on Friday night.
The incident occurred when a petrol-laden tanker collided with a heavy-duty truck, causing a massive fire. According to eyewitnesses, the fire spread along the Akpajo-Onne Road due to the ongoing road construction, trapping many vehicles in the inferno.
Motorists described the chaos, with some unable to escape the flames and others witnessing the devastation of more than 100 vehicles. They criticized the road reconstruction for worsening traffic congestion and called for better management to prevent such tragedies.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the death toll, stating that security forces were on-site to maintain order.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara is scheduled to visit the scene, with police and fire brigade teams already present.
This incident is reminiscent of a similar tragedy in March 2023, where 12 people died in an explosion at a crude oil tapping point in Rumuekpe community, highlighting the ongoing dangers in the region.
